It was reported in the press last week that Airbnb now has 200,000 properties listed across the UK, of which 80,000 are in London. The pioneering home-rentals platform is often referred to as a global hospitality business. But is it?
There’s little denying that the business founded in 2008 in San Francisco has been a major disruptor to hotels, but is it offering hospitality? Isn’t there a distinct difference why someone chooses a hotel – the concierge, the F&B, room service, that sense of being in safe hands and all the special little touches – over a private apartment? In essence, the hospitality.
As well as Airbnb often offering a more feasible option for travellers, there’s been a lot of research as to why people opt for staying in a stranger’s home over a hotel. Most notably it was the desire to feel part of a local community. We’re all familiar with the notion of the much-lauded neighbourhood restaurant – perhaps it’s now time for the neighbourhood hotel?
A final reminder that entries to the S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2019-2020 competition close tomorrow.
Have a good week.
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