In this episode of the EU-Startups Podcast, we speak with Jens Wohltorf, CEO & Co-founder of Blacklane, a premium global chauffeur service that provides reliable, comfortable, and sustainable door-to-door journeys in cities around the world. Founded in 2011 and having secured over €203 million in funding, Blacklane is known for its exceptional service standards and caters to both business and leisure travellers, combining luxury with seamless travel experiences.
Jens shares the story of how the company grew from an idea into a trusted name in luxury mobility. He talks about scaling across continents while maintaining high standards, navigating complex local regulations, and adapting during the pandemic to emerge stronger than ever. The conversation also explores building trust in the luxury service industry, anticipating customer needs, scaling without sacrificing quality, and much more!
Video version of episode 131:
Audio version of episode 131:
Key takeaways:
- Trust is your most valuable currency.
- Global expansion demands local understanding – and patience.
- Scaling too fast can compromise quality beyond repair.
- Anticipation and empathy separate good service from great service.
- Crises (like the pandemic) can be catalysts for reinvention.
