Dutch hospitality tech unicorn Mews is considering a future public listing, with a strong preference for the United States over Europe. CEO and co-founder Matthijs Welle revealed that an IPO is a potential route for the company, though no specific plans have been confirmed. Welle cited the deeper capital markets and a more SaaS-focused investor base in the U.S. as key factors influencing this direction, noting that similar vertical SaaS companies tend to list there.
Mews Prioritizes Global Expansion and Innovation Over Immediate IPO or Exit Strategy
Despite IPO discussions, Welle emphasized that Mews is currently more focused on expanding its global footprint rather than planning an exit. “We are committed to building one of the most exciting hospitality technology brands in the world,” he stated. The company’s core mission remains scaling its operations and refining its platform, which serves a critical role in hotel management by streamlining functions like guest check-ins, payments, housekeeping, and analytics.
Mews Eyes U.S. IPO as CEO Criticizes Dutch Startup Climate and Focuses on Global Hospitality Tech GrowthMews has experienced significant growth, supported by strong global travel demand. In 2024, the company achieved a 50% increase in annual revenue, processed over $10 billion in payments, and surpassed $200 million in total revenue. The firm has also raised a total of $411 million in funding, including a $75 million round this month, and has acquired 12 competitors to strengthen its market position. These developments solidified its unicorn status in 2023 with a $1.2 billion valuation.
Dutch and EU Tech Leaders Criticize Poor Startup Support, Urge Relocation for Growth
Despite Mews’ success, Welle expressed dissatisfaction with the Dutch government’s support for tech startups. He believes there is a lack of a cohesive strategy to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. This criticism is echoed by other tech leaders, who feel that bureaucratic inertia and policy shortcomings are stifling startup growth both in the Netherlands and across the EU.
Several prominent Dutch and European entrepreneurs are voicing similar frustrations and taking action. Robert Vis of Bird and Job van der Voort of Remote have both criticized EU policymakers for hindering innovation, with Vis openly planning to move operations abroad. Van der Voort, whose company is now based in San Francisco, advises other startups to leave Europe if they want to thrive, highlighting how regulatory burdens are driving businesses to more supportive ecosystems.
