The online print platform Helloprint has bought out some of its early shareholders through a substantial share buyback. CEO Hans Scheffer cites the goal of long-term independence and organic growth as the reason for the move.
Profitability Creates Leeway
According to a LinkedIn post, the transaction was handled by the Dutch law firm INGEN HOUSZ, led by founder Matthijs Ingen-Housz and partner Meelf van Oosten. The post states that Helloprint is leveraging its own profitability to regain full control of its strategic direction. Management has made a conscious decision to pursue long-term independent and organic growth.
Productivity gains through AI
Over the past three years, Helloprint says it has invested heavily in AI integration and data-driven processes. Productivity per employee has risen noticeably as a result.
“In recent years, we have invested a great deal of time and resources into the digitization and automation of our processes, with AI as the central driver. This investment is now paying off,” CEO and co-founder Hans Scheffer is quoted as saying. Over the course of three years, the company has seen strong growth in nearly every area—except for headcount. Today, it is achieving significantly more with significantly fewer people.
The Goal Is Further Growth
According to the company, which was founded in 2013, its goal is to become one of the global market leaders in personalized print products. To continue playing a leading role in this massive market without losing its corporate culture, buying back shares from early investors was a strategic priority.
Context
For the European online printing market, the transaction sends an interesting signal: While other platform providers have recently positioned themselves through external investors and acquisitions, Helloprint is focusing on internal strengthening and AI-driven efficiency.
The exact volume of the buyback and the specific shareholders who have exited have not yet been disclosed. Earlier investors included Bregal Unternehmerkapital and Project A Ventures, among others.
