Looking to book a hotel online? Chances are you’ve come across Hotels.com, one of the leading hotel booking websites in the world. But have you ever wondered who actually owns Hotels.com? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ownership of this popular platform and delve into the company behind it.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Expedia Group is the proud owner of Hotels.com. But there’s more to the story, so let’s dive in and explore the details.
In this article, we’ll discuss the ownership structure of Hotels.com, shed light on its parent company, and explore how it fits into the broader travel industry. We’ll also touch upon the history and growth of the platform, highlighting its key features and benefits for travelers. So, let’s begin our journey into the world of Hotels.com.
The Ownership of Hotels.com
Hotels.com is one of the most popular hotel booking websites used by travelers around the world. But who exactly owns Hotels.com? Let’s take a closer look at its ownership and how it fits into the larger hospitality industry.
Expedia Group: The Parent Company
Hotels.com is owned by Expedia Group, a leading online travel company that operates several well-known brands in the travel industry. Expedia Group was founded in 1996 and has since grown to become one of the largest online travel platforms in the world. The company offers a wide range of services, including hotel bookings, flights, car rentals, and vacation packages.
Expedia Group has a strong presence in the travel industry, with a portfolio that includes other popular brands like Expedia.com, Travelocity, Orbitz, and HomeAway. With its extensive network and resources, Expedia Group has been able to establish Hotels.com as a trusted and reliable platform for travelers looking for accommodation options.
Acquisition of Hotels.com
In 2001, Expedia Group acquired Hotels.com, adding it to its portfolio of travel brands. The acquisition allowed Expedia Group to expand its offerings in the hotel booking sector and tap into the growing online travel market. Hotels.com, which was founded in 1991, had already established itself as a reputable hotel booking website, making it a valuable addition to Expedia Group’s portfolio.
The acquisition of Hotels.com also provided Expedia Group with access to a large inventory of hotels worldwide, allowing them to offer customers a wide range of options to choose from when booking their accommodations.
Hotels.com Under Expedia Group
Under the ownership of Expedia Group, Hotels.com has continued to grow and evolve. The website has undergone several updates and enhancements, making it even more user-friendly and efficient for travelers. Hotels.com offers a comprehensive search engine that allows users to easily find and compare hotel prices, read reviews, and make secure bookings.
Hotels.com also offers a loyalty program called “Hotels.com Rewards,” where customers can earn free nights and enjoy exclusive benefits when booking through the website. This program has been well-received by travelers and has contributed to the continued success of Hotels.com under the umbrella of Expedia Group.
Exploring Expedia Group
When it comes to the ownership of Hotels.com, one name that stands out is Expedia Group. Expedia Group is a leading global travel platform that operates several popular travel brands, including Hotels.com. The company was founded in 1996 and has since become one of the largest online travel agencies in the world.
Expedia Group: A Global Travel Platform
Expedia Group offers a comprehensive range of travel services, including hotel bookings, flights, vacation rentals, car rentals, and more. The company’s website and mobile app provide users with a user-friendly interface to search and book their travel accommodations. With a vast inventory of hotels worldwide, Expedia Group caters to a diverse range of travelers, from budget-conscious individuals to luxury seekers.
Expedia Group’s mission is to “power global travel for everyone, everywhere.” The company strives to make travel booking easier and more accessible for people around the world. By leveraging technology and data analytics, Expedia Group aims to provide personalized recommendations and a seamless booking experience for its users.
Other Brands Owned by Expedia Group
In addition to Hotels.com, Expedia Group owns and operates several other well-known travel brands. Some of these include:
- Expedia.com: Expedia.com is one of the world’s largest online travel agencies, offering a wide range of travel services.
- Hotwire: Hotwire is a popular online travel booking site that offers discounted rates on hotels, flights, and car rentals.
- Orbitz: Orbitz is another online travel agency that specializes in hotel bookings, flights, car rentals, and vacation packages.
- Travelocity: Travelocity is an online travel agency known for its user-friendly platform and competitive prices.
These brands, along with Hotels.com, are part of Expedia Group’s portfolio, allowing the company to cater to different segments of the travel market. Expedia Group’s diverse range of brands provides travelers with options and flexibility when it comes to planning their trips.
For more information about Expedia Group and its brands, you can visit their official website https://www.expediagroup.com/.
Hotels.com: A Brief History
Hotels.com, one of the most popular hotel booking websites today, has a fascinating history that dates back to its early days. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the journey of this well-known platform.
The Early Days of Hotels.com
Hotels.com was founded in 1991 by David Litman and Robert Diener. Initially, it started as Hotel Reservations Network (HRN), a toll-free hotel booking service. Back then, travelers would call a 1-800 number to make their reservations. This innovative concept allowed customers to book hotel rooms without the need for travel agents, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
As technology advanced, Hotels.com transitioned from a call-based reservation system to an online platform. In 2002, the company acquired the domain name Hotels.com, which became its official website. This move marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the brand and set the stage for its future success.
Growth and Expansion
Over the years, Hotels.com experienced tremendous growth and expanded its reach globally. In 2003, the company became a subsidiary of Expedia Group, one of the largest online travel companies in the world. This strategic partnership allowed Hotels.com to leverage Expedia’s vast resources and customer base, fueling its expansion into new markets.
Today, Hotels.com offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts, in over 200 countries. With its user-friendly interface, extensive search options, and competitive prices, it has become a go-to platform for travelers seeking convenient and affordable accommodation options.
Key Features of Hotels.com
Hotels.com has several key features that set it apart from other hotel booking websites. One of its standout features is its “Price Match Guarantee.” If you find a lower price on another website within 24 hours of booking, Hotels.com will refund the difference.
Additionally, Hotels.com offers a rewards program called “Hotels.com Rewards.” With this program, customers earn one free night for every 10 nights booked through the platform. This loyalty program has been well-received by travelers, as it provides an added incentive to continue using the website.
Furthermore, Hotels.com provides detailed hotel descriptions, customer reviews, and ratings to help travelers make informed decisions. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive search filters make it easy to find the perfect accommodation for any travel needs.
Hotels.com in the Travel Industry
Hotels.com is a well-known hotel booking website that has revolutionized the way people plan and book their accommodations. With its user-friendly interface and extensive database of hotels around the world, Hotels.com has become a go-to platform for travelers looking for the best deals and convenient booking options.
The Impact of Online Hotel Booking
The rise of online hotel booking platforms like Hotels.com has greatly impacted the travel industry. In the past, travelers had to rely on travel agents or directly contact hotels to make reservations. This process was time-consuming and often left travelers with limited options.
However, with the advent of Hotels.com and other similar websites, travelers now have access to a vast range of hotels at their fingertips. They can easily compare prices, read customer reviews, and make informed decisions without ever leaving their homes.
Additionally, Hotels.com offers various features that enhance the booking experience. These include the ability to filter search results based on specific criteria, such as price range, amenities, and location. This allows travelers to find accommodations that best suit their preferences and budget.
Competitors and Market Position
While Hotels.com is a popular choice among travelers, it faces competition from other online hotel booking platforms. Some of its key competitors include Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb.
Despite the competition, Hotels.com has managed to establish a strong market position. Its extensive network of hotels and competitive pricing strategies have contributed to its success. Additionally, the website’s loyalty program, which offers rewards and discounts to frequent users, has helped build customer loyalty.
According to a report by Statista, Hotels.com had a market share of approximately 17% in the online hotel booking market in 2020. This demonstrates its significant presence in the industry and its ability to attract a large number of users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hotels.com is owned by Expedia Group, a prominent player in the travel industry. Expedia Group’s acquisition of Hotels.com has allowed the platform to thrive and become one of the go-to options for travelers seeking affordable and convenient hotel bookings. As part of Expedia Group, Hotels.com benefits from the company’s global reach and extensive network of travel brands.
With its user-friendly interface, extensive hotel listings, and attractive rewards program, Hotels.com continues to attract millions of users worldwide. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a leisurely vacation, Hotels.com offers a convenient and reliable platform to find the perfect accommodation.
So, the next time you’re looking to book a hotel online, remember that behind Hotels.com stands Expedia Group, a powerhouse in the travel industry, dedicated to making your travel experiences seamless and enjoyable.
