Startups aren’t the only ones taking a fresh look at old-school industries.
Reston-based BridgeStreet Global Hospitality has put some skin in the tech game by launching an online booking platform for extended-stay accommodations geared toward business travel.
The company, which for two decades has operated extended-stay venues, saw the rising popularity of alternative lodging options (Airbnb, home rentals, hostels) as an impetus to expand its services beyond being the endpoint for travelers. Its original business, which remains operating, services large corporations’ demands for special needs like relocation, months-long projects with onsite employees and intern groups.
“We saw a natural evolution in the marketplace in the broader space. Airbnb and other sharing economy services have changed the landscape of what people view as accommodation,” CEO Sean Worker said.
The platform enables corporate travel managers, clients and other business travelers to book professionally-operated extended-stay hotels, hotels, furnished homes, vacation rentals, serviced apartments and hostels through one system – bridgestreet.com. The company says the platform will increase rate transparency, data management and security, reporting and booking speed for those managing their corporation's travel plans.
BridgeStreet’s site has listings in more than 22,000 cities, including dozens of available rentals in D.C. Its main advantage as an aggregator, Worker said, is that users can filter results based on accommodation needs, like amenities, length of stay, parking and pets.
The platform is free to consumers, but BridgeStreet creates customized portals for larger corporate clients that can set companywide approvals and restrictions on travel. It earns a commission from hospitality venues when travelers are booked through the system.
Worker said the company has 300 to 400 employees worldwide, with 100-plus in its Reston headquarters.
