Neuss-based startup ScrapBees has announced a €4 million funding round to scale its innovative recycling services from regional operations to a nationwide presence. With the backing of investors NRW.BANK and EIT RawMaterials, alongside existing supporters such as BONVENTURE, Faraday Venture Partners, and several Business Angels, the company is poised to transform recycling in Germany’s trades and construction industries.
Tackling Recycling Challenges in the Trades Sector
Founded in 2022 by Thilo Hamm and Florian Kriependorf, ScrapBees has rapidly gained traction by addressing the pressing need for efficient recycling in the face of raw material shortages. The company offers a streamlined, digital-first service designed for trade businesses, ensuring waste is managed directly from construction sites to recycling processors.
“Many trade businesses face a shortage of skilled workers and need reliable support,” said Hamm, ScrapBees’ Co-founder. “We’re stepping in as a trusted partner, handling tasks like removing old heating systems and managing all construction site waste. With this funding, we’re ready to seamlessly integrate our services across multiple sectors, solidifying our role as the backbone of Germany’s heating transition.”
Driving Impact and Sustainability
ScrapBees plays a crucial role in Germany’s climate targets, particularly in the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) sector, where sustainability is critical. Co-founder Kriependorf emphasized the environmental benefits: “Installing 500,000 heat pumps annually in Germany generates significant waste—about 300 kilograms of scrap metal per system. Our recycling process reduces CO2 emissions by 230 kilograms per collected ton compared to traditional methods.”
Currently, ScrapBees serves over 900 business customers, with nearly half coming from the HVAC industry. The company’s end-to-end service includes on-site collection, analysis, weighing, and digital tracking, providing clients with electronic proof of disposal and credit for valuable materials.
Scaling Up for Nationwide Expansion
With a fleet of 30 vehicles and a workforce of permanent drivers, ScrapBees has established a strong presence in Germany’s major metropolitan areas. Customers can easily schedule waste pickups via email, phone, WhatsApp, or an online platform. The collected materials are sorted, documented, and sold to national processors, ensuring transparency and supporting the circular economy.
Looking ahead, ScrapBees plans to roll out its services nationwide under the ScrapBees brand. “We’re already trusted by over 400 HVAC customers, including major national suppliers,” Hamm noted. “Our goal is to drive growth by acquiring new customers and expanding into additional sectors, allowing businesses to focus on their core activities while we handle their recycling needs.”
Investor Confidence in Sustainability Innovation
The funding round underscores investor confidence in ScrapBees’ mission to make recycling more efficient and impactful. “ScrapBees is tackling resource scarcity while improving operational efficiency in vital industries like HVAC,” said Gonzalo Tradacete, CEO of Faraday Venture Partners. “We’re excited to support them in their journey to make recycling a cornerstone of the circular economy.”
With its ambitious plans and strong investor backing, ScrapBees is poised to redefine recycling for trades and construction businesses across Germany, contributing to both economic efficiency and environmental sustainability.