Airbnb announced it will partner with three travel management companies—American Express Global Business Travel, BCD Travel and Carlson Wagonlit Travel, making it easier for the companies to utilize Airbnb options.
Since founded in 2008, Airbnb hosts have welcomed more than 100 million guest arrivals at Airbnb listings worldwide. Approximately 10 percent of all travelers on Airbnb for Business are business travelers. This trend is largely driven by travelers seeking accommodations that allow them to experience cities they visit.
“Business travelers want the freedom to choose accommodations that align with their personal and professional tastes,” said Wes Bergstrom, vice president, global supplier relations, American Express Global Business Travel. “At the same time, traveler safety and security are a top priority for companies."
The first phase of the American Express GBT partnership, which is detailed below, is expected to go live in the U.S. in the next few weeks and to expand to additional countries later this year.
How the Partnership Will Work (AmEx Example)
Once American Express GBT refers a customer to Airbnb, individual travelers can book accommodations directly on Airbnb.com using a corporate email address. American Express GBT and Airbnb will integrate Airbnb booking information into American Express GBT’s reporting platform so that American Express customers can easily track their travelers’ Airbnb bookings. Once complete, the reservation details for each business trip will automatically be shared with GBT and travel managers can then access the data.
Travelers will be able to access that booking information through American Express GTB’s corporate reporting and duty of care platforms. Travelers will also have the ability to view their booking details in their regular corporate itineraries and on mobile devices. GBT and Airbnb will continue to develop additional phases of this program, which will enable greater integration throughout the booking process.
“We are excited to be working with one of the leaders in the travel management space, and look forward to helping business travelers feel more at home while traveling on the road,” said Lex Bayer, head of global payments and business travel at Airbnb. “Airbnb for Business gives business travelers access to more than two million homes around the world, and the ability to explore a city like a local, even if it’s just for one night.”
The integration with BCD Travel and Carlson Wagonlit Travel will go live over the next few months.
Airbnb's Annual Event
The third-annual Airbnb Open, a festival that combines visionary talks and company updates with music, art and food will take place in Los Angeles in November. Last year, in Paris, the Open welcomed over 5,000 hosts from 110 countries. The annual event is an opportunity for Airbnb's community to gather in one place and for hosts in particular to make meaningful connections with each other and learn tips for successful hosting as well as hearing the latest news from the company, with important product updates.
