In a funding round bucking recent trends in the grocery delivery sector, Netherlands-based startup Crisp has successfully raised €35 million in equity financing. The Series C funding, led by existing backers such as Target Global and Keen Venture Partners, aims to propel Crisp’s expansion in its home market and neighboring Belgium.

Unlike its competitors like Gorillas and Getir, Crisp takes a unique approach, focusing on next-day delivery rather than ultra-fast delivery within minutes. This allows Crisp to serve customers across a broader geographic area without the need for an extensive network of micro-warehouses in city centers.

Tom Peeters, Co-founder and CEO of Crisp, explains, “We have one larger distribution centre that basically serves an area with a radius of around three hours’ drive in the Netherlands that conveniently covers all of the country, as it does with our warehouse in Belgium.”

Crisp stands out by targeting a different consumer base with a focus on weekly shopping and larger baskets. While competitors may struggle to achieve an average basket size of €30, Crisp’s target market boasts an average basket size of around €90. This strategic move allows Crisp to make a more substantial margin per customer, putting the company on a clear path to break even.

Peeters highlights Crisp’s commitment to efficiency, offering around 3,000 individual products compared to the 30,000 typical of larger supermarkets. The company’s app-driven model enables it to efficiently manage supply and demand, providing a more responsive and less wasteful system.

Despite the challenges posed by rising fuel and energy costs, Crisp remains confident in its ability to maintain its position in the market. As the company receives this new injection of funds, it signals a departure from the recent struggles faced by heavily-backed grocery startups, showcasing Crisp’s unique approach and resilience in the evolving food delivery landscape.