Airbnb Continues to Grow and Expand
There is no denying the “community marketplace” for unique travel accommodations, Airbnb, is experiencing massive success. According to CNN, the company is valued at 25.5 billion dollars. Much of the company’s success comes from the fact that it is part of a “private IPO trend” reports CNN. This trend allows hedge funds, mutual funds and big investors to contribute large amounts of money, but doesn’t require the companies to deal with public disclosures.
While some are sure that this bubble will burst, it seems Airbnb is doing everything in its power to remain relevant in the eyes of travelers. For example, Airbnb has been at the forefront for travel and tourism in Cuba, listing 2,000 properties made available to Americans just months ago according to Fortune.
The newest focus for the company is now business travelers. The company announced that it will be, “taking its business travel program global and adding new features.” The program will expedite the booking process for employees and travel managers and will make the process of submitting bills and tracking employee expenses much easier for businesses reported CNN.
Any business travelers who are employed by a company that is signed up with the business travel program through September 1, 2015 will receive $50 in Airbnb credit.
While the company is projected to lose money, the programs and aggressive growth of the company make it look like it is here to stay.