Lyft has announced plans to buy FREENOW, a European ride-hailing app, for approximately 175 million EUR (197 million USD).
FREENOW currently operates in 9 countries and more than 150 cities across Europe. After the acquisition, Lyft will operate in 11 countries, including the United States and Canada.
The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2025, pending standard approvals.
David Risher, CEO of Lyft said:We’re on an ambitious path to build the best, most customer-obsessed mobility platform in the world, and entering Europe is an important step in our growth journey. We found the perfect partner in FREENOW and can learn a lot from the team. FREENOW's local-first approach mirrors Lyft's values and embodies our purpose — to serve and connect.
FREENOW focuses primarily on taxi bookings and works closely with local partners, regulators, and unions. In 2024, taxis made up 90% of FREENOW’s total bookings. Lyft plans to use this local knowledge to support its own services, while adding new features and tools for drivers and riders.
Lyft says this move will help it grow outside North America and add new sources of income. It also plans to improve the service for FREENOW users by offering faster matches, more pricing options, and better driver tools.
FREENOW CEO Thomas Zimmermann said:Joining forces with Lyft is a powerful step forward for FREENOW and marks the beginning of an ambitious new phase—one where we strengthen our role as a leading force in European mobility. Lyft's strong, customer-first track record aligns perfectly with our deep roots in the taxi industry, and together we will push boundaries and raise expectations for fleet owners, taxi drivers, and riders across the continent.
We stand with the industry—not above it—and remain proud partners of the community. This collaboration is about combining our strengths, learning from each other, and scaling what works best. We sincerely thank our former shareholders for their trust and enduring partnership throughout the years.
FREENOW is a leading app in cities like London, Berlin, Madrid, and Athens. Around half of taxi bookings in Europe still happen offline, and both companies see a chance to bring more of these trips online.
Lyft and FREENOW say they will work together to offer a better experience to drivers and passengers, while keeping local needs in mind.
