How Much Will It Cost to Start a Shared Power Bank Network?
The cost of starting a shared powerbank network depends on how advanced the product needs to be. There's a lot to take into account!
If you decide to start your own business, you will need at least one full-stack developer and a business manager. Since it all comes down to how advanced the product should be (think app-based functionality, payment terminals, and station features), you must factor in both time and investment. The cost of launching your own power bank network typically ranges from €20,000 to €250,000, depending on whether you purchase a ready-made app or build your own from the ground up. Post-launch, you will also incur operational costs such as storage, servers, licenses, development, and continuous support.
Many companies offer franchise or white-label solutions, and your choice between these options will significantly affect both your startup and ongoing expenses.
Franchise, become a Brick Partner, or a white-label company?
Your choice depends on your budget, target market, and how many stations you intend to deploy. Traditionally, franchisees purchase stations from the franchisor and operate within a predefined brand and business framework. Some companies require a high upfront fee, while others use monthly subscriptions. You’ll pay fees based on station volume or active users, since software maintenance costs expand as the network grows, though revenue typically grows in parallel.
Brick offers three structured paths, designed to match your ambition level:
- Market Operator – Ideal for full-scale market expansion and high-volume deployments.
- Network Partner – Suited for smaller, efficient networks with balanced operational demands.
- Custom White-Label Solutions – Perfect for brands or operators wanting a fully custom, standalone product.
Investment Expectations & ROI of the franchising partnerships
To build a sustainable and profitable network, we recommend counting on having at least €10,000 ready to invest, even if the minimum entry level is lower. This ensures you have the capital to launch effectively, choose competitive placements, and scale early wins.
For a placed station operating in a solid environment, the typical ROI is between 3-18 months. The majority of stations become profitable and generate strong long-term returns. However, as with any investment, there is always an element of risk, and performance depends on placement strategy, local demand, and your engagement as an operator. Active partners consistently see the most predictable and lucrative outcomes.
About Brick's Custom White-Label Solutions
Our most tried and proven partnerships are the Network and Market Operator partnerships. About Brick’s Custom White-Label Solutions
Brick offers fully custom white-label solutions for companies that want their own branded power bank network, complete with a tailored app, custom visual identity, bespoke UX, and specific feature sets. This option is ideal for businesses that want:
- Full brand ownership
- Complete app customization (design, functionality, user flow, integrations)
- Custom hardware branding
- Flexible operational setups
- Independence from the Brick brand, with Brick powering the technology behind the scenes
This solution reduces the heavy time and cost burden of building your own infrastructure from scratch while letting you maintain complete control over the customer-facing experience.
The white-label solution requires you to have at least €200,000 ready to invest.
How Brick Supports Partner Success
Brick’s model is built to grow with you. When partners perform well, Brick rewards them with opportunities to scale faster and more efficiently, such as:
- Financing options to reduce upfront capital requirements
- Access to stations at self-cost for proven, high-performing partners
- Priority placement and market expansion opportunities
- White-label upgrade opportunities, including custom features or branding
These benefits are unlocked as partners demonstrate operational reliability, quality deployments, and a commitment to growth.
Become a Brick Partner
Becoming a Brick partner can get you started with €4,990 as an initial investment. You receive hardware equivalent to your full investment, software and commercial partnership are included. No hidden fees.
Ready to jump in?
