Alan Secures $220 Million Funding at $1.67 Billion Valuation

The French health insurance innovator, Alan, has successfully completed a $220 million funding round, resulting in a company valuation of $1.67 billion. This translates to €185 million and €1.4 billion respectively. Leading the investment is Coatue, alongside participation from Dragoneer, Exor, and current investors including Index Ventures, Ribbit Capital, and Temasek.

Building Health Insurance Anew

Alan embarked on a mission to construct health insurance solutions from the ground up. Initial coverage of the company dates back to 2016, when it initially received regulatory approval to operate as a licensed health insurance provider.

Growth and Revenue Trajectory

Since its inception, Alan has experienced substantial growth, currently providing coverage to 160,000 individuals. The company now generates over €100 million in annual revenue. A significant portion of this revenue is allocated to claim settlements, yet the revenue growth remains noteworthy.

Capital Requirements and Strategic Funding

Similar to conventional insurance entities, Alan is subject to specific capital requirements mandated by health insurance regulations. Additional capital is necessary to expand its insured population. However, the company currently maintains sufficient funds to operate effectively for the next 12 to 18 months.

Strong Performance and Expansion Plans

According to co-founder and CEO Jean-Charles Samuelian-Werve, Alan concluded 2020 with robust performance. He noted that achieving these results involved considerable effort. The company’s objectives were met, and international expansion initiatives began to gain momentum.

Strategic Investment Decision

Startups often seek funding when in a position of strength, avoiding a situation where they are compelled to accept unfavorable terms. Alan followed this principle, securing investment while maintaining a favorable negotiating position. The company prioritized a partner with a long-term strategic outlook, even amidst multiple investment offers.

Evolution into a "Superapp"

This new funding will enable Alan to refine its primary offering – health insurance – and enhance the features that position it as a comprehensive “superapp.” In France, individuals benefit from both the national healthcare system and supplemental private insurance. Alan provides its services to businesses, automatically enrolling their employees in Alan insurance plans, representing a B2B2C business model.

Client Base and Expansion Goals

Currently, 9,400 companies in France, Belgium, and Spain have chosen Alan. Key clients include WeWork, Deliveroo, JustEat, Vitaliance, and Big Mamma. Alan aims to reach 1 million members by the year 2023.

Three Pillars of Growth

Alan’s strategy for attracting new customers is built upon three core areas: product innovation, enhanced customer satisfaction through supplementary services, and expansion into new sectors and geographic markets.

Modular Insurance Solutions

Alan has developed a modular insurance builder, allowing small businesses to subscribe to coverage with ease. Larger organizations can customize every aspect of their insurance package to meet their specific requirements.

Streamlined Health Insurance Management

The company is focused on simplifying health insurance administration. Future features will include automated sick leave management and employee status updates. Alan prioritizes transparency for its members, providing clear information on out-of-pocket costs and doctor fees.

Rapid Reimbursement Process

Alan strives for swift claim reimbursements. For uncomplicated claims, the company aims to analyze and process them quickly, issuing instant SEPA transfers. Currently, 75% of claims are reimbursed and available in a user’s bank account within an hour.

Expanding Beyond Core Insurance

These core features contribute to high customer satisfaction. Alan is also expanding its offerings with additional services designed to improve retention, such as virtual doctor consultations, medical advice for infants, meditation app subscriptions, telehealth appointments, and mental health support.

The Alan "Superapp" Experience

These services are transforming Alan into a comprehensive health “superapp.” Upon enrollment in Alan insurance, members gain access to these additional services at no extra cost.

Personalized Healthcare Guidance

Alan intends to introduce a personal care guidance service to connect users with the appropriate healthcare professionals based on their individual needs. In Spain, Alan already facilitates appointment scheduling.

Aggressive Expansion and Hiring Plans

Alan plans to hire 400 employees over the next three years and extend its insurance products to new industries, including retail, wholesale, and manufacturing.

European Expansion on the Horizon

While maintaining a focus on France, Belgium, and Spain, Alan is actively exploring opportunities for expansion throughout Europe. The company’s future geographic reach remains to be seen.