Watersports franchise for seasonal revenue

KAYAKOMAT is a Scandinavian outdoor brand offering a self-service rental solution for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). The concept was developed in Sweden by Point 65, one of Europe's leading kayak manufacturers. The first KAYAKOMAT station was installed in 2019 and the network has since grown to over 200 locations in Sweden, Norway, Germany, Denmark, France and Canada. The model operates with minimal staff input, using custom-built rental lockers connected to an online booking and access system. Each station can be accessed 24/7 during the rental season, typically from May to September, depending on the climate.

The service is targeted at leisure users, tourists, hotels, municipalities and recreational areas. Customers reserve and pay for their kayak or SUP rental online, receive a digital code via SMS or email, and collect the equipment independently. No staff are required on site, and the system includes automated safety checks, instructions and customer support. Franchisees can operate the stations as standalone businesses or as an extension of existing tourism or hospitality operations.

KAYAKOMAT is positioned within the growing sector of smart outdoor experiences. The brand leverages low-maintenance infrastructure and high digital automation, enabling franchisees to generate seasonal revenue with flexible time commitment. Its simplicity, scalability and eco-friendly character have contributed to rapid international expansion. As of 2025, KAYAKOMAT is expanding further across Europe and seeking new franchisees in urban waterfronts, lakeside towns, beach resorts and recreational regions.

Franchise offer and investment requirements

KAYAKOMAT offers a simplified franchise model often referred to as “franchise-lite” or operational licensing. The franchisee purchases or leases the physical station infrastructure and pays a setup and support fee to access the brand, software system, marketing platform and operational support. The franchisor provides the smart-locker hardware, booking and payment platform, onboarding, training materials and ongoing marketing campaigns. Franchisees manage local logistics, equipment maintenance, and customer inquiries that cannot be resolved via the automated system.

The initial investment varies based on the size of the station. A standard 6-locker station, including equipment, costs approximately €15,000 to €18,000. Larger stations with 8 to 12 lockers may require an investment of up to €25,000. There is no fixed franchise fee, but a yearly service and licensing fee applies, typically ranging between €1,500 and €3,000 depending on the number of stations operated. The business operates seasonally, so working capital requirements are low. A franchisee can expect to recover their investment in 1.5 to 2.5 years, depending on usage levels and location quality.

Stations must be placed in high-traffic recreational areas with water access, such as marinas, beaches, lakesides or riverbanks. Permission from local authorities or landowners is required, but the installation process is simple: the lockers are freestanding, require no electricity, and can be set up without permanent construction. The system is solar-powered and built from weather-resistant materials. The franchisor assists in site evaluation and local permit acquisition where needed.

Franchise candidate profile and process

KAYAKOMAT seeks local operators with access to suitable waterfront locations and basic business skills. Ideal franchisees include outdoor enthusiasts, seasonal entrepreneurs, tourism companies, campsites, hotels, and even municipalities. No technical background is required; the system is designed for ease of use and includes training materials for startup and operation. The business can be managed solo or as a part-time venture, with time commitment focused on setup, equipment maintenance and marketing.

To start, applicants fill out an interest form on the KAYAKOMAT website. After an introductory call, the franchisor evaluates the proposed location and provides a detailed quotation and operational guide. Upon signing the agreement and placing the initial order, delivery and onboarding take 3–5 weeks. The station can be installed within a single day. Franchisees are onboarded remotely and provided with access to a centralized booking and analytics dashboard. The franchisor runs region-wide marketing campaigns and provides customizable promotional materials in local languages.

As of 2025, KAYAKOMAT operates over 200 stations in Europe and North America, with the largest networks in Sweden and Germany. New territories available for franchise development include Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, the Netherlands, Italy and the Baltic countries. Each franchisee receives exclusive local rights, depending on location size and market potential.