Investment & Fund Management

Welcome Pickups, an Athens-based tourism company, faced significant challenges in its early stages when it operated under the name Dopios. The initial business model was not gaining traction, and the company struggled to find its footing in the competitive travel market. Recognizing the need for a pivot, the founders shifted their focus to airport transfers, which proved to be a turning point for the business. This strategic change, coupled with a rebranding to Welcome Pickups, revitalized the company and aligned its services with the growing demand for personalized travel experiences.

To support this transition, Welcome Pickups secured financing from Openfund, a Greek venture-capital fund backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF). This funding was crucial during the initial difficult period, allowing the company to refine its business model and operational strategies. The support from Openfund enabled Welcome Pickups to establish itself as a unique service provider that connects travelers with local knowledge and personalized assistance right from their arrival at the airport.

As a result of these tailored solutions, Welcome Pickups experienced remarkable growth. By the end of 2017, the company was active in 12 destinations across Europe and had successfully served 200,000 travelers annually. This represented a staggering 300% year-on-year growth. The company plans to continue expanding its team and services, with future offerings including restaurant recommendations and more personalized travel experiences, further solidifying its position in the tourism industry.