Posted
14/03/2019
As you've probably seen, it was reported recently that Airbnb plan on acquiring HotelTonight, a hotel-booking application that allows travellers to arrange last-minute accommodation. We said this time last year that it's going to get harder to differentiate between Airbnb and traditional online travel agencies.
So it's no surprise to see them make more moves within this space that's been dominated for so long by OTAs. This time though, they've set their sights on last minute bookings. Their introduction of boutique hotels in 2018 felt natural to the platform's quirky, stylish vibe that places such importance on community and unique experiences. On the other hand, acquiring HotelTonight will ensure the expansion of their appeal to a huge cohort of people, mainly those travelling with work, who are not too concerned with aesthetics. On the contrary, all they need is quick access to a suitable room that'll facilitate a bit of shut eye on their last minute trip.
"What is our mission? For so long, people thought Airbnb was about renting houses. But really, we’re about home. You see, a house is just a space, but a home is where you belong. And what makes this global community so special is that for the very first time, you can belong anywhere. That is the idea at the core of our company: belonging."
One thing's for sure, their position in the market is only strengthening. Watch this space!
