The Entrepreneurs Weekly
No Result
View All Result
Sunday, June 1, 2025
  • Login
  • Home
  • BUSINESS
  • POLITICS
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • ENTERTAINMENT
Subscribe
The Entrepreneurs Weekly
  • Home
  • BUSINESS
  • POLITICS
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • ENTERTAINMENT
No Result
View All Result
The Entrepreneurs Weekly
No Result
View All Result
Home ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Making A Splash: Nicolas Soucaille, General Manager – UAE, Blacklane | Entrepreneur

by Brand Post
November 10, 2023
in ENTREPRENEURSHIP
0
Making A Splash: Nicolas Soucaille, General Manager – UAE, Blacklane | Entrepreneur
152
SHARES
1.9k
VIEWS
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter


You’re reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Among successful examples of market entry strategies, the manner in which Blacklane, the chauffeur-hailing service founded by Jens Wohltorf and Frank Steuer in Germany in 2011, made its debut in the UAE would probably rank pretty high on the list. After all, not only did Blacklane support the UAE’s declaration of 2023 as the “Year of Sustainability,” but it was also aligned with the nation’s “Net Zero by 2050” strategic initiative.

However, Nicolas Soucaille, General Manager – UAE, Blacklane, explains that the company’s all-electric chauffeur service is just one of many unique features it has developed in order to adjust to the nuances of the UAE market. “Our business model in the UAE takes a unique approach, as we operate a dedicated fleet and full-time, salaried chauffeurs,” Soucaille explains. “Also, our vehicles are operated by our dedicated team of male and female chauffeurs (who are trained by Blacklane’s proprietary Chauffeur Training Academy), prioritizing every guest’s safety as their number one priority. Our female chauffeurs currently represent nearly 50% of our crew, and we are in the process of further growing this number.”

When comparing the Blacklane of today to what it was when it launched in Berlin 12 years ago, Soucaille points out a major transition from an initial emphasis on delivering exceptional customer service as well as a strong focus on sustainability, to the company today training its attention also on innovation, passenger safety, and a strong commitment to the well-being of chauffeurs. “These elements collectively set us apart in the competitive landscape of ride-sharing platforms,” Soucaille adds. Another stand-out factor is the company’s choice to have sustainability be a fundamental element of its operational focus. “We at Blacklane are passionate about offering chauffeur services that enables seamless, stress-free, and sustainable travel for the fast-paced travelers,” Soucaille says. “Since 2017, we’ve made substantial progress in reducing our ecological footprint by implementing carbon-offsetting projects for all our rides. Looking ahead, we are committed to globally delivering 50% of our rides with electric vehicles by 2025.”

Related: Future Foresight: Phoenix Group Co-Founder Bijan Alizadeh On Why He Continues To Look At The Crypto Space With Realistic Optimism

Soucaille also reveals that Blacklane has developed strategies for integrating sustainability into daily operations, which include filling empty leg journeys for chauffeurs and thereby ensuring that they have a reliable income, as well as introducing city-to-city services in order to reduce the need for shorthaul flights.

Source: Blacklane

Today, Blacklane operates in more than 200 cities across over 50 countries across the globe. Boosting a workforce of 300 dedicated employees, it offers a comprehensive range of chauffeur-hailing services, including one-way, return journeys, airport transfers, hourly bookings, and inter-city travel. “We offer both on- demand and schedule for later services, with fixed transparent pricing, established at the time of booking,” Soucaille adds.

Soucaille also points out that all of the company’s chauffeurs undergo a comprehensive training program through the Blacklane Chauffer Training Academy, which ensures that they practice the highest standards of excellence in service, safety, etiquette, and discretion. A UAE branch of the Academy launched in September 2022. “The training journey commences with a comprehensive assessment, facilitated through advanced artificial intelligence and the use of a driving simulator, where we evaluate the chauffeurs’ driving skills and behavior,” Soucaille says. “Subsequently, they embark on an intensive, immersive training curriculum, encompassing both theoretical and practical components. The program delves into driving techniques, safety procedures, navigation and route planning, vehicle intricacies, and the art of delivering an excellent guest experience.” In addition to professionalism and training, the chauffeurs are also educated on health and cleaning standards, Soucaille adds.

As an entrepreneurial endeavor, Blacklane has, according to market intelligence platform CB Insights, raised approximately US$90 million over 13 funding rounds, with some of the rounds including UAE-based investors Abu Dhabi-based business conglomerate Al Fahim (Series D in 2018) and Gargash Group (Series F in 2023). Other investors include Daimler Mercedes-Benz, SIXT, Japan’s Recruit Holdings, and more. As such, it is with this kind of backing that Blacklane aims to strengthen its position as a global leader in premium ground transportation. As Soucaille put it: “Blacklane’s primary strategic objective is to position itself as the preferred choice of transportation and an industry leader.”

Source: Blacklane

THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Blacklane’s Nicolas Soucaille offers his pointers for businesses expanding into the UAE and the wider Middle East

Do your homework “When entering any new country, it is important to prioritize market research to grasp its unique dynamics. Consider factors such as local regulations, competitive landscape, and market trends. These will help tailor your approach and offerings to suit the market’s specific requirements.”

Forge strong ties “Like all businesses, trust and relationships are paramount to building your business in the region. One must always carefully recognize the diverse and culturally rich landscape. This also plays a crucial role in tailoring your products, services, and marketing strategies to align with local values and traditions.”

Communicate effectively “Ultimately, communication plays the most important role in establishing your brand in the region. Effective communication entails clearly defining your unique selling points, and how they meet the UAE market needs. Your messaging should resonate with the local audience, highlighting the benefits of your offerings in a way that speaks to their specific requirements.”

Related: The UAE’s Crypto Powerhouse: Munaf Ali, Co-Founder And Group Managing Director, Phoenix Group



Source link

Tags: BlacklaneDubaientrepreneurGeneralMakingManagermiddle eastMobilityNicolasSoucailleSplashStarting a BusinessUAE

Related Posts

Jessica Velazquez: A Trailblazing Woman Entrepreneur in the Cigar Industry
ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Jessica Velazquez: A Trailblazing Woman Entrepreneur in the Cigar Industry

March 24, 2025
The Lawyer NYC Trusts: Mitchel Ashley’s Relentless Pursuit of Justice
ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The Lawyer NYC Trusts: Mitchel Ashley’s Relentless Pursuit of Justice

December 5, 2024
Hello world! – The Business Goals
ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Hello world! – The Business Goals

October 20, 2024
  • Trending
  • Comments
  • Latest
Meet Amir Kenzo: A Well Known Musical Artist From Iran.

Meet Amir Kenzo: A Well Known Musical Artist From Iran.

August 21, 2022
Behind the Glamour: Bella Davis Opens Up About Overcoming Adversity in Modeling

Behind the Glamour: Bella Davis Opens Up About Overcoming Adversity in Modeling

April 20, 2024
Dr. Donya Ball: Pioneering Leadership Solutions for Tomorrow’s Challenges

Dr. Donya Ball: Pioneering Leadership Solutions for Tomorrow’s Challenges

May 10, 2024
Nasiyr Bey’s Journey from Brooklyn to Charlotte: The Entrepreneurial Path to Owning a Successful Cigar Lounge

Nasiyr Bey’s Journey from Brooklyn to Charlotte: The Entrepreneurial Path to Owning a Successful Cigar Lounge

August 8, 2024
Augmented.City Startup Developers Appeal To US Politicians With An Open Letter

Augmented.City Startup Developers Appeal To US Politicians With An Open Letter

0
U.S. High Court Snubs Challenge To State And Local Tax Deduction Cap

U.S. High Court Snubs Challenge To State And Local Tax Deduction Cap

0
GOP Lawmaker Blames Biden For Russia-Ukraine War: Putin ‘Could never have Invaded’

GOP Lawmaker Blames Biden For Russia-Ukraine War: Putin ‘Could never have Invaded’

0
Brad Winget’s Tips and Tricks on Having a Career in Real Estate

Brad Winget’s Tips and Tricks on Having a Career in Real Estate

0
This 0 MacBook Air Handles Your Hustle Without Complaints | Entrepreneur

This $200 MacBook Air Handles Your Hustle Without Complaints | Entrepreneur

May 31, 2025
What Every Brand Gets Wrong About Using AI | Entrepreneur

What Every Brand Gets Wrong About Using AI | Entrepreneur

May 31, 2025
Improve Your Productivity with Windows 11 Pro for Just  | Entrepreneur

Improve Your Productivity with Windows 11 Pro for Just $15 | Entrepreneur

May 31, 2025
Turn Your Side Hustle Into a 7-Figure Business With These 4 AI Growth Hacks | Entrepreneur

Turn Your Side Hustle Into a 7-Figure Business With These 4 AI Growth Hacks | Entrepreneur

May 31, 2025

The EW prides itself on assembling a proficient and dedicated team comprising seasoned journalists and editors. This collective commitment drives us to provide our esteemed readership with nothing short of the most comprehensive, accurate, and captivating news coverage available.

Transcending the bounds of Chicago to encompass a broader scope, we ensure that our audience remains well-informed and engaged with the latest developments, both locally and beyond.

NEWS

  • Business
  • Politics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Entertainment
Instagram Facebook

© 2024 Entrepreneurs Weekly.  All Rights Reserved.

  • About Us
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
No Result
View All Result
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • ENTERTAINMENT
  • POLITICS
  • BUSINESS
  • CONTACT US
  • ADVERTISEMENT

Copyright © 2024 - The Entrepreneurs Weekly

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In