Renting vs as-a-service with Patrick Hypscher

How Tech Enables Circular Innovation – with Patrick Hypscher

What does it really take to build circular business models — and how can technology accelerate that transformation?

In this episode of HappyPorch Radio, we’re joined by Patrick Hypscher, a circular business strategist, advisor, and the voice behind Circularity.fm. Patrick brings unique insights from working at the intersection of digital innovation and the circular economy — from launching a software startup to building BlueMovement, a home appliance subscription service inside Bosch Siemens Home Appliances (BSH).

We explore the vital role of technology in enabling, scaling, and adapting circular models, particularly product-as-a-service (PaaS). Patrick shares honest reflections on what worked, what didn’t, and how thoughtful use of digital tools can remove friction, support iteration, and accelerate progress.

In this episode:

Patrick explains why building in-house tech is often unnecessary — and even risky — for early-stage PaaS ventures.

We discuss how SaaS tools, APIs, and no-code platforms offer the flexibility needed to support fast iteration and growth.

Patrick explores the enabling role of IoT and remote condition monitoring in rental and performance-based models.

He shares real-world examples, including cooling-as-a-service from Kaer, pay-per-part manufacturing at Trumpf, HP Instant Ink, and Hilti subscriptions.

We reflect on organisational culture, channel conflict, and internal buy-in — and how to navigate these in large businesses.

Finally, we explore the importance of iteration, adaptability, and learning cycles when piloting circular models.

This episode offers practical insights for anyone working at the intersection of digital systems and circular design.

Mentioned in this episode:

BlueMovement (BSH): https://www.bluemovement.com/nl-en

Kaer – Cooling-as-a-Service: https://www.kaer.com/

Trumpf – Pay-per-Part Manufacturing: https://www.trumpf.com/en_INT/

HP Instant Ink: https://instantink.hpconnected.com/uk/en/l/v2

Hilti Tool Subscriptions: https://www.hilti.co.uk/content/hilti/E1/GB/en/support/support/faqs/subscription-portal/general-subscription-portal.html

About our guest:

Patrick Hypscher is a circular strategist and the host of Circularity.fm, where he interviews founders and practitioners building real-world circular business models. With a background in economics, philosophy, and entrepreneurship, Patrick brings a systems-thinking lens to his work.

He previously led the