Kenya-based travel technology company HotelOnline has announced the acquisition of HotelPlus, a hospitality software provider with a presence in 22 countries. This strategic move positions HotelOnline as a major player in the hospitality technology industry across East Africa and beyond.
The acquisition includes a payout for HotelPlus founder Eric Muliro, along with $1.9 million in shares in HotelOnline, which was valued at $24 million prior to the deal. Muliro will also join HotelOnline as its Chief Technology Officer, bringing his extensive expertise to the team.
A Boost in Clientele and Service Offerings
The acquisition significantly increases HotelOnline’s customer base by over 2,200, creating opportunities to offer expanded services such as payment solutions and AI-driven pricing tools. “This partnership allows us to integrate our cloud solutions with HotelPlus’s on-premise software, offering clients a robust and innovative service experience,” said Håvar Bauck, co-founder of HotelOnline.Founded in 2014, HotelOnline provides digital tools to enhance visibility and streamline operations for hotels. These include property management systems, booking engines, and distribution channel integrations. The company also offers property management services, helping hotel owners optimize their businesses.
Accelerating Expansion Across Africa
The acquisition is part of HotelOnline’s ambitious growth strategy to dominate the hospitality technology market across Africa. With more than 6,000 clients in 27 countries, the company is leveraging HotelPlus’s reseller network and expertise to penetrate key markets like Nigeria and Senegal while consolidating its position in East Africa.”HotelPlus has built a strong commercial presence with a highly skilled sales team and an extensive reseller network. This acquisition lays the groundwork for rapid expansion in Africa,” added Bauck.
Industry Support and Funding
The deal comes after HotelOnline’s Series A funding earlier this year, led by Yanolja, a South Korean travel technology giant. This partnership has provided HotelOnline with the resources needed for strategic investments and expansion. Other investors include TRK Group, Stratel AS, and several angel investors.As the hospitality sector rebounds from the pandemic, this acquisition positions HotelOnline to drive innovation and growth in the industry. The company aims to establish itself as a leading pan-African player, offering cutting-edge solutions for a recovering and evolving market.
