Haferkater

Haferkater is a German fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in porridge, which has successfully identified and capitalized on the market for healthy, quick-service food options. Founded in 2014 by friends Anna Schubert, Leandro Burguete, and Levin Siert, the company began its journey by transforming a former kebab shop in Berlin into a small café. The founding concept, inspired by Burguete's time in England, was to modernize traditional porridge as a convenient to-go meal. A significant milestone occurred in 2016 when Haferkater won a startup competition hosted by Deutsche Bahn, leading to a successful pop-up store at Berlin Central Station and cementing its brand among travelers.

The company operates primarily in high-traffic locations such as train stations and airports, targeting commuters and travelers seeking nutritious and convenient food. Its business model encompasses both company-owned stores and a franchise system, which allows for rapid expansion. Revenue is generated through the sale of a focused, vegetarian- and vegan-friendly menu. The core product is freshly prepared porridge, made from organic German oats that are flaked daily in-store. Customers can choose from various toppings, with seasonal options to maintain variety. The menu also includes salads, coffee, wraps, and bowls. Beyond its physical locations, Haferkater has expanded its reach by offering retail products like granola and toppings in supermarkets across Germany and Austria.

Financially, Haferkater has demonstrated steady growth, reporting a turnover of €11 million in 2023. The company initially scaled with the support of strategic investors, including Katjes Greenfood in 2017 and Zentis in 2021. However, inspired by purpose-driven business models, the founders have transitioned the company to a steward-ownership structure ('Verantwortungseigentum'). This move involved a successful crowdfunding campaign and new investors to buy out the previous stakeholders, ensuring that profits are reinvested into the company and its mission, rather than maximizing shareholder returns. This strategic shift guarantees the company's long-term independence and commitment to its core values of sustainability, which include using compostable packaging and partnering with food-saving organizations.

Keywords: porridge restaurant, healthy fast-casual, German food startup, travel catering, vegan food to-go, steward-ownership, sustainable restaurant, franchise system, organic food, Berlin startup, train station food, commuter meals, quick-service restaurant, Anna Schubert, Leandro Burguete, Levin Siert, purpose-driven company, Katjes Greenfood, Zentis, Deutsche Bahn startup winner