Travel platform Holibob lands £10m investment

Travel platform Holibob has raised $12m (£10.1m) in its Series A investment round, led by previous investor Ryan Howsam, the founder and CEO of travel insurance provider Staysure.

Founded in Scotland but now London-based, Holibob is a business-to-business marketplace that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to find activities for tourists while on their travels.

It partners with travel companies including Amadeus, Kayak, and SecretEscapes to create bespoke holiday experiences.

The startup was founded in 2019 by Angus Hardy and Craig Everett. In April, it acquired TourismSolved.

“With the expertise, we have in place and the infusion of capital from this funding round, we’re well-positioned to realise our vision of helping the tours and attractions industry effortlessly connect the right products with the right travellers at the right time,” said Holibob CEO Craig Everett.

In addition to the new funding, the company has gained access to a credit facility. Holibob will use the investment to improve its AI, marketing, content optimisation and consumer experiences.

Holibib said its revenue has grown by 600% over the past six months, with the company likely to have benefitted from the uptick in international travel following the lifting of many Covid-19 restrictions.

Ryan Howsam, investor, Holibob said: “The team’s proven ability to partner with, and more importantly drive revenue for, leading travel brands made it an easy decision to double down on my support for them and their business model, including the extension of a credit line that will allow the team to focus on innovation and execution rather than further fundraising.”