Economics
Airbnb Is Adding Hotels and a Loyalty Program
The company, known for renting rooms in other people’s homes, wants to be more mainstream.
Airbnb Looks to Go Mainstream by Adding Hotels, Loyalty Program
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Airbnb Inc. is largely known for cheap accommodations and the occasional awkwardness that comes with staying in someone else’s home. Now the company wants to broaden its appeal by incorporating what has long been seen as the enemy: hotels.
At a company event on Thursday, Brian Chesky, Airbnb’s co-founder and chief executive officer, outlined a roadmap designed to make his service more mainstream. The efforts include highlighting hotels on the website, a loyalty program, and the ability to match guests with accommodations that fit their budgets and tastes.