Navan is moving beyond its identity as an American TravelTech company as it solidifies its presence in Europe. Over a decade since its founding, the company has engaged directly with European partners and clients to understand the market. It now operates more than 20 offices across Europe, including locations in Paris, London, Berlin, and Lisbon, with over 2,000 employees based on the continent out of a total workforce of 4,000.
European Market Strategy
The company’s growth in Europe reflects its strategic shift. In 2018, it had approximately 23 European clients, a number that rose to over 3,000 by 2026, according to Chief Customer Officer Michael Riegel, who was the co-founder of the Berlin-based travel management startup Comtravo before its acquisition by Navan in 2022. Riegel emphasized that replicating the U.S. model in Europe was not feasible due to regional differences in consumer behavior and regulatory environments.
“If you look at the markets, the challenges are similar, but how we approach them must differ,” Riegel explained. While artificial intelligence is a key focus in both regions, European discussions center more on data security and privacy. “We see more emphasis on these topics here compared to the U.S.,” he said.
Partnerships and Local Adaptation
One of the most significant challenges it faces in Europe is rail travel, particularly cross-border routes. The company has formed partnerships with local providers in the rail and transportation sectors to address these complexities. “Navan is a marketplace, and we depend heavily on local content and supply,” Riegel stated. “That’s why we invest heavily in building relevant partnerships and are proud to work with over 150 suppliers based in Europe.”
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This localized approach means it tailors its services to each market. Riegel highlighted the importance of recognizing differences between countries like France, Germany, and Spain. “There was a clear strategic logic: we must adapt to the local market and trust the teams on the ground to do so,” he said. This philosophy has been consistent since it sought deeper European integration, understanding that success requires substantial investment and market expertise.
Acquisition and Leadership Integration
Navan’s European expansion has been supported by acquisitions and strategic leadership hires. In addition to Comtravo, the company acquired Reed & Mackay in 2021 and Regent International in 2024. These moves align with its strategy of leveraging existing European expertise. Fred Stratford, former CEO of Reed & Mackay, and Giovanni Tiradritto, founder of Regent International, continue to play active roles in guiding its European operations.
Future Outlook
Navan’s mission remains to simplify travel for everyone, Riegel said, though significant work remains. Many travelers still do not use the platform, and reaching its vision requires continued adaptation. The company’s growth in clients and footprint demonstrates progress, but its success will depend on balancing innovation with local market responsiveness. As Europe becomes a larger part of Navan’s operations, its ability to handle regulatory, cultural, and logistical differences will shape its long-term trajectory.