The startup operates an online hotel booking platform that enables real-time rate negotiations between guests and hotels through an automated system configured with specific business rules. This platform allows travelers to make offers, receive deals, and complete bookings with online payment, addressing the lack of direct communication and pricing flexibility in traditional hotel booking methods.
Funding
$2.1M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Traditional online hotel booking platforms offer fixed prices, lacking flexibility for travelers seeking better deals and preventing direct negotiation with hotels. This can lead to missed opportunities for hotels to fill unsold rooms and for travelers to secure rates that align with their budget.
Solution
Hoo is an online travel agency that facilitates real-time rate negotiations between travelers and hotels. The platform allows users to make offers on hotel rooms, which hotels can then accept, reject, or counter, enabling a dynamic pricing environment. By connecting travelers directly with hotels' pricing strategies, Hoo aims to provide better deals for consumers and increased occupancy rates for hotels. The platform supports online payments to secure bookings once an offer is accepted.
Target Audience
Hoo primarily targets leisure and business travelers seeking flexible pricing options for hotel accommodations, as well as hotels looking to optimize occupancy rates and revenue through dynamic pricing.
Features
- Hotel search functionality with filters for location, dates, and number of guests
- Offer submission system allowing travelers to propose their desired room rate
- Real-time notifications to hotels regarding incoming offers
- Hotel management portal for reviewing, accepting, rejecting, or countering offers
- Secure online payment processing for confirmed bookings
- Integration with various hotels, ranging from independent properties to large chains
- Personalized recommendations based on user preferences and travel history