Raylo Secures £5.2M Funding: Driving Sustainability and Growth

September 12, 2023

Raylo, a UK-based sustainable tech platform, has recently made waves in the investment sphere by securing a substantial £5.2 million in funding, comprised of both cash and media for equity. Spearheaded by leading entities Macquarie and Channel 4 Ventures, this funding is a testament to Raylo's innovative approach towards promoting a circular economy within the tech industry.

At the core of Raylo's business model lies the concept of leasing electronics, offering customers a viable alternative to traditional ownership. By opting for a leasing arrangement, individuals contribute to reducing electronic waste, a growing concern in today's consumer-driven world. Rather than discarding outdated gadgets, Raylo's platform allows for the refurbishment and redistribution of electronics, extending their lifespan and minimising environmental impact.

"Our investment will enable Raylo to build awareness of its proposition throughout the UK and help it on its journey in becoming a household name," remarks Hannah Redgewell, Investment Principal at Channel 4 Ventures, emphasising the strategic significance of supporting initiatives that prioritise sustainability and consumer welfare.

Raylo's success is underscored by its impressive growth metrics. With a staggering 39-fold increase in customer subscriptions over the past three years and an annualised recurring revenue of £22 million, the company has firmly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the tech leasing domain. Currently boasting 80,000 customer subscriptions, Raylo is poised for further expansion and market penetration.

Karl Gilbert, co-founder and CEO of Raylo, expresses gratitude for the recent funding influx, highlighting the pivotal role it plays in advancing the company's mission of fostering a circular economy. "Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in our mission to accelerate the move to a circular economy," Gilbert remarks, signalling the company's unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation.

In addition to its core leasing offering, Raylo has diversified its portfolio with auxiliary products such as Raylo Pay and Raylo Insurance, catering to evolving consumer needs and preferences. This strategic diversification underscores Raylo's adaptability and responsiveness to market dynamics, positioning it as a versatile player in the tech ecosystem.

The decision to embark on a crowdfunding campaign via Crowdcube further underscores Raylo's commitment to fostering community engagement and ownership. By inviting individuals to become stakeholders in its journey, Raylo not only democratises investment opportunities but also cultivates a sense of shared responsibility towards environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

Raylo's trajectory exemplifies the growing emphasis on corporate sustainability and responsible business practices. In a world grappling with the consequences of rampant consumerism and environmental degradation, initiatives like Raylo offer a glimmer of hope, showcasing the transformative potential of conscious capitalism and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

As Raylo continues to chart new territories and redefine industry norms, its unwavering commitment to sustainability serves as a beacon of inspiration for businesses worldwide. By harnessing the power of innovation and collaboration, Raylo exemplifies how profit-driven enterprises can align their objectives with broader societal and environmental imperatives, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.