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Here is this week’s curation of the main news on innovation, trends, and startups from the travel industry:
- Tech solutions for guest delight. Dubai-based Lokalee, an AI-powered hotel content platform, successfully raised $5.6 million in pre-Series A funding. This investment, with contributions from strategic investors, will fuel Lokalee’s rapid product development and expansion into European markets. Currently serving 250 hotels, Lokalee enhances guest experiences through AI, simplifies operations, and increases revenue. Its customizable platform allows guests to seamlessly browse and book various services. Lokalee’s future plans include the launch of a trip planner, combining AI technology with curated human data for an optimal guest journey experience.
- “Music has a powerful way of uniting people”. In the line of collaborations that are not obvious – but that make me smile. Delta and Spotify have joined forces to bring passengers a unique entertainment experience. The partnership has resulted in the release of “The Passport Sessions,” a docuseries that explores the influence of music on different cultures. This is an exclusive content and is available on Delta’s in-flight entertainment, enhancing the passenger experience through cultural connections. Very nice to give travelers more than just a flight; but to also make travel a fun celebration of music, cultures, and things we all enjoy
- Leading short-term rental data provider AirDNA has acquired vacation rental software and channel management system Uplisting. Uplisting is renowned for its powerful property management tools and synchronization capabilities across platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. The acquisition enhances AirDNA’s market insights and marks AirDNA’s second acquisition within six months, reinforcing its dynamic expansion.
- Better together? European micromobility companies Tier and Dott are merging to combine their operations and strengthen their position in the industry. This move comes as many scooter and e-bike companies have been struggling financially. The merger involves reshuffling leadership, with Dott’s CEO becoming the CEO of the new entity. Despite raising an additional €60 million in funding led by Mubadala Capital and Sofina, the total valuation is likely lower than previous funding rounds. The combined company aims to generate over €200 million in revenue. Both Tier and Dott’s services will continue to be available in their markets.
- Megatrends, for you and for me. Is that time of the year where Skift publishes what they expect to be the main trends in travel for the coming year. This is a must read for anyone working in the industry and interested in tracking innovation and strategic developments.