The scooter-sharing market hasn’t fully formed but there’s already a considerable interest in it. There are a few startups that have made a name for themselves in the market and they are now being sought out by significantly larger transportation companies for acquisition. Uber is reportedly talking to two scooter-sharing startups as it aims to clinch a multi-billion dollar deal in this budding market.
The Information reports that Uber has held discussions with Bird on a multi-billion dollar acquisition of the startup. In case talks fall through, the company has reportedly been discussing a possible acquisition with Bird’s rival Lime as well.
Uber already has a relationship with Lime as it owns a minority stake in the startup. The two have also teamed up earlier this year to bring electric scooters to Uber’s transportation network for the first time. The report adds that Uber wants to be quick to clinch a deal and it’s looking to sign one with either Bird or Lime before the end of this year.
Bird CEO Travis VanderZanden did tell reporters recently that the startup is “not for sale,” he hasn’t denied the ongoing talks with Uber so this may as well be a negotiating tactic. Uber will only really talk about this if and when it’s able to reach a deal with either company.
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