🌱 Fresh funds, partnerships & mobility startups

Hi there,

I’m just back from the busy days at Phocuswright Europe and wanted to share some top news on innovation, trends, and startups with you.

We are preparing some exciting announcements about this year's FutureTravel Summit - stay tuned. In the meantime, while we're working on the preparation of the event, the speaker application form is still open. Feel like sharing your insights? Apply here!

• Boosting the things people like to do. Holibob secures new funding to enhance its eCommerce engine for travel experiences. The UK-based company helps destinations and travel brands sell experiences online with its advanced technology. The platform provides hyper-relevant recommendations to travelers, resulting in strong engagement and increased bookings. The company aims to further develop their solutions, making it easier for travelers to find and book the best in-destination experiences.

• Remixing spaces. Tokyo-based Matsuri Technologies secures $8.65 million in Series D funding to boost its StayX platform and expand tourism infrastructure. The company converts single-use rooms into multi-use spaces. The funds will enhance software, expand facilities, and recruit talent, capitalizing on Japan's tourism surge. Japan’s tourism industry is experiencing a robust recovery, with inbound visitors reaching 25 million in 2023, nearing pre-pandemic levels. This revival also benefits the private accommodation sector.

• Departure deals. In a joint-effort, Wizz Air launched an e-commerce store powered by InterLnkd's intelligent matching engine. This platform matches destinations with relevant fashion, beauty, and essential products for passengers, offering a personalized shopping experience with items from over 20,000 brands, including M&S, Sephora, and Asos. This launch follows InterLnkd’s recent funding round and new partnerships with travel brands like Thomas Cook and LeShuttle.

• Top mobility startups. Mobility in Europe is transforming with a push for sustainable transport. As travel and transportation sectors converge, startups are at the forefront, leveraging tech to create eco-friendly options. Electric car registrations hit 3.2 million in 2023, a 20% rise from 2022. Trends like shared mobility, autonomous driving, and AI integration are reshaping how we move, so the EU-Startups team is spotlighting 10 European startups leading this change.

• Do you know an extraordinary business leader who deserves recognition? Our Partners Airwallex, in collaboration with Visa, are looking for extraordinary leaders who demonstrate the Olympic spirit. Why? Nominate them and give them a chance to win tickets to the Olympic Games Paris 2024, courtesy of Visa! The winner will receive a trip to the Olympic Games for themselves and 4 guests, travel and accommodation and more! To nominate someone (or yourself), simply visit the link below and share their story. Nominations close on 21 June at 12:00 so don’t miss out and apply today! We can't wait to hear about all the inspiring leaders out there!

• Rewriting hospitality. San Francisco-based Canary Technologies raised $50 million in funding, bringing their total to nearly $100 million. The US-based company provides AI solutions to thousands of hotels including major brands like Marriott and Hilton. Their tech streamlines hotel operations, enhances guest experiences, and reduces fraud. The new funds will help the startup to improve their AI capabilities and expand their team.

Best wishes,
Ana

Thank you for reading until the end.

The content of this newsletter is curated and published by Ana Metz, an innovation expert, passionate about technology and excited about the future of travel.

Interested in the most innovative travel startups right now? Explore our Premium Report: “Top 100 Travel Startups” to find relevant insights for you.

Looking for a space to promote your business or service for more than 24k subscribers? Let’s talk.

en