HEIUKI: From the Origin of TIKI SHARE to a Europe-wide Franchise Network
It all began in 2021 with the HEIUKI vending machines – they are the identity of TIKI SHARE. Together with our partner aufgabengut we now operate a Europe-wide franchise network. We deliver IT and hardware, you run the fully automated, off-grid rental – under the HEIUKI brand or as a white-label.
Why classic rentals don't scale
Classic water sports rentals are staff-heavy, weather-dependent and bound to fixed opening hours. This is exactly where the HEIUKI concept comes in:
High Staffing Costs
Classic water sports rentals tie staff to fixed shifts – wages and turnover eat into the margin.
Limited Opening Hours
No staff means no rentals: early mornings and long summer evenings stay unused.
Weather Dependency
Staff planning collapses with the weather forecast. Costs run during rain, hands are missing during sun.
Sites Need Infrastructure
Many attractive spots by the water offer neither power supply nor secure storage.
On the water in 1 minute: how it works
A simple 24/7 self-service for your guests, powered by the TIKI SHARE platform.
Book & pay online
Guests choose their time slot via the web app and pay cashless – intuitive and without an app download.
Open the locker via phone
A digital code opens exactly the compartment containing the booked equipment.
Enjoy time on the water
Take the equipment, lock up valuables, paddle off. After use, everything simply goes back.
Robust, modular, Made in Germany
We build the machines ourselves and offer the right size for your location. High-quality SUPs, kayaks, paddles, life vests and drybags are stored securely and ready to go.
Size S
Compact and efficient. 4300 × 1200 × 2400 mm. Capacity: up to 7 SUPs.
Size M
For high-traffic locations. 4300 × 2300 × 2400 mm. Capacity: up to 14 SUPs.
Solar & off-grid
Solar- and battery-powered. No grid connection required, no intervention in nature.
From Pilot Site to Network
The project started in 2021 with a single automat at one body of water. Only after a full season running there without staff on site were compartment layout, pricing logic and maintenance intervals fixed and described as a repeatable location package.
On that basis, the network expanded location by location in the following years — partly as a franchise under the HEIUKI brand, partly as white-label under the operator's own brand. A new location goes live within a few days today: placement, mobile connectivity, activation in the platform.
The Results
What started as a pilot site in 2021 has grown into a proven, scalable business model – with measurable benefits for every partner.
No shift planning, no staff turnover.
Flexible rental hours for maximum utilization.
No more is required in regular operation.
Deployed across Europe – and growing.
Become a partner: Franchise or White-Label
We offer flexible models for founders, investors and existing rental stations across Europe.
HEIUKI Franchise
You invest in the vending machine and operate it under the established HEIUKI brand. We handle IT, software, customer support and online marketing. You only spend 1–2 hours per week on on-site maintenance.
White-Label Licence
Full independence under your own brand. Ideal for existing networks or international expansion (already live in Switzerland and Belgium). You operate our proven hardware and software completely on your own.
Location Partnership
You have the perfect spot by the water? We operate the vending machine and you receive an attractive revenue share.
Related Solutions and Technologies
HEIUKI SUP & Kayak Automat
All hardware details and sizes in the product datasheet.
Locker Management Software
The platform that controls every HEIUKI machine remotely.
Booking System
How online booking, payment and code handover work together.
Sport & Leisure
More automation solutions for leisure facilities.
TIKI Smart Locker
Our intelligent locker systems for other industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Business Ready2Go
What are you waiting for? Get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation and soon start your own fully automated water sports business.