CEO Interview: Why Super Apps Are Taking Off in Europe

CEO Interview: Why Super Apps Are Taking Off in Europe
AUTHOR
Martin Kubáň

Super apps are gradually reshaping how we use digital services in Europe and are no longer just an Asian phenomenon. As users grow weary of managing dozens of different apps, a new generation of integrated digital platforms promises to make life simpler, faster, and more connected.

The Roklen24 editorial team interviewed Miloš Felix, CEO of Etnetera Flow, about why super apps make sense right now, how they are transforming various industries, and what it takes to build a digitally connected ecosystem.

Why does the concept of super apps make sense in the European market right now?

Time and attention have become our most valuable commodities. People are tired of switching between dozens of apps, remembering logins, and constantly adapting to new interfaces. They expect simplicity, just one place where everything is connected.

This shift is driven especially by Generation Z, who grew up with smartphones and see seamless digital experiences as standard. So this is the natural evolution of the market. According to Gartner, by 2027, more than half of the world’s population will rely on just a few super apps instead of many single-purpose ones. What we’ve seen for years in Asia with platforms like WeChat or Grab is now becoming a reality in Europe.

How do super apps differ from regular applications, and who are they for?

A regular single-purpose app focuses on one thing and does it well. A super app works as a digital platform that connects multiple services in one user environment, often involving third parties.

“The goal is to create an ecosystem where people can handle most of their daily needs without leaving the app. Everything works under one login and in one interface.”

Basically, it’s for anyone who wants life to be simpler. Super apps are being adopted by digitally savvy users who expect maximum efficiency and a seamless experience.

How many super apps are currently operating in the Czech Republic, and what are their main goals?

We’re still at the early stage, so defining exact numbers is tricky. But we’re seeing the first pioneers appear, mostly in industries with strong customer trust and large user bases. That’s why this model works especially well for known brands, banks, or even public institutions.

The business goals go far beyond retention. Super apps help companies unlock new opportunities for cross-sell and upsell, unify data for smarter decision-making, and build a competitive edge in markets where just offering a good product isn’t enough anymore.

Which industries are leading the way, and what examples stand out?

The most visible movement is in finance and automotive. In finance, it’s quite natural – whoever controls payments often controls the customer relationship. A perfect local example is DoKapsy by ČSOB (member of KBC Group), which has evolved from a banking app into an everyday assistant. Users can manage their finances, pay for parking, buy tickets, and access partner offers – all in one place.

Automotive brands are also embracing the concept. Take MyŠkoda, it started as a remote-control app for the car but has evolved into a mobility platform. It helps users with servicing, trip planning, and even connects them to shared-mobility options. Suddenly, it’s not about the car anymore, but about the whole travel experience.

DoKapsy is popular even among people who aren’t ČSOB clients. Why is that?

The app offers features that everyone needs daily, and these activities are not dependent on having a ČSOB account to use them. That’s why the app has already reached over half a million unique users and continues to grow by around 40% annually. 

“About 230,000 users aren’t ČSOB clients, making DoKapsy a huge acquisition channel and a smart way to build relationships with people who might not otherwise engage with the bank.”

What does a typical day with a super app like DoKapsy look like?

Imagine a regular day in the city. You buy a bus ticket on your phone, pay for parking without searching for coins, and later use the same app to show a loyalty card or grab a lunch deal nearby.

The goal is to remove small everyday frictions and make life smoother. Super apps also open the door to entirely new experiences. Literally. Unlocking and shopping in a 24/7 self-service COOP store is possible via BankID in the app. The app becomes the key to a physical service. That’s the true power of connecting digital and physical worlds.

How has MyŠkoda evolved, and what has changed after unifying its functions?

Previously, users had three separate Škoda Auto apps for different services, which could have been confusing. We merged them into one MyŠkoda app to simplify the experience.

Now users have a single account, one modern interface, and all services in one place. Whether they want to pre-cool the car, check the battery status, confirm it’s locked, or schedule a service appointment, it’s all there.

MyŠkoda has strategically shifted from being a remote-control app to becoming the central hub for the driver’s mobility, helping with navigation, parking, or connecting to other transport services.

How do you design a super app that stays secure, clear, and scalable?

It all starts with a modular, scalable architecture. We use an API-first approach so we can easily and securely connect new services from external partners.

Data consistency is also key. The app must draw from a single source of truth to deliver a coherent user experience. On the frontend, we focus on robustness and simplicity. The interface should feel intuitive, while the system behind supports personalization and emerging technologies such as AI.

We’re building foundations that let the super app evolve freely without turning its architecture into a bottleneck over time.

What’s the business impact, and when does investing in a super app pay off?

The impact is significant. A super app becomes a strategic communication and service channel, instead of just a utility. It brings new revenue streams, unifies data, lowers operational costs, and strengthens customer loyalty. It’s a long-term investment that makes sense for companies with a trusted brand and a strong user base. 

But it can also work the other way around – starting small and building up. For instance, Qerko, which we showcased at our Etnology event, began as a simple payment solution for restaurants and is now successfully evolving into a broader hospitality platform for both guests and businesses. It’s a perfect example of how a focused digital experience can grow into a full-fledged ecosystem.

What defines a true platform, and how do you measure success?

A standard app solves a single problem. A platform creates an environment where even third parties can build and offer their services. It’s an open ecosystem. 

And success isn’t measured by downloads anymore. What matters is user engagement, how often people return, how many services they use, and how much value they generate over time. 

“Metrics like daily or monthly active users and customer lifetime value tell the real story.”

Off-the-record: Final thoughts

As digital ecosystems mature, the line between product and platform is disappearing. Super apps turn isolated interactions into seamless, integrated experiences that feel effortless for the user.

For companies, the challenge is not just about building great technology, but about earning trust and delivering genuine usefulness. The most successful platforms will be those that understand people’s everyday habits and remove friction rather than add complexity.

As we look further ahead, we can already see what’s coming next. It’s called the digital companion. While super apps connect services, a digital companion uses AI to anticipate what users need before they even ask. It shifts from being a catalog of services to becoming a true personal assistant. That’s the future we’re moving toward, from managing apps to being supported by intelligence that works alongside us.

In October 2025, we held a webinar Why Super Apps Might Be the Future, featuring Chloe Wong presenting MyŠkoda, and Jitka Hajičová, presenting DoKapsy od ČSOB.

Register and receive the full webinar recording

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