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Listed fintech group 8common (ASX: 8CO) has tapped travel disruptors TRAVLR to assist in the development of a new business leisure platform.
Called Benefits8 the employee benefits platform has been created to serve the growing business and leisure travel opportunity sector and will leverage 8common's Expense8 business unit.
The Expense8 platform is a travel and expense management application used by some of Australia's largest corporations like Woolworths and Amcor, as well as various state and federal government agencies.
Benefits8 will serve those wanting to combine business and leisure travel. According to Hilton Hotels nearly 70 per cent of survey respondents had a desire to extend their work trips for leisure purposes. Additionally, Egencia's 2018 'Bleisure Trends Report' found that 68 per cent of travellers mix business with pleasure trips.
TRAVLR first emerged as a disruptive player in 2017, connecting travellers with a new way to plan, book, and discover their next travel adventure. Using advanced technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence, the TRAVLR platform automatically curates and offers recommendations based on the type of traveller you are and the trip you want to take.
The startup has come a long way from its roots as a simple PDF file posted on Facebook called 'The Bali Bible'.
Compiled initially by co-founder Lani te Hennepe (pictured left), the Facebook community rapidly grew into 10,000 strong, inspiring the two to create a website and mobile app for the idea.
Co-founder of TRAVLR Simon te Hennepe (pictured right) says he is thrilled to see 8common support the efforts of the startup in creating a unique tech solution.
"At TRAVLR, we have developed this platform over the last 10 years, seamlessly using technology to create the very best experience for travellers," says Simon.
"It's great to be partnering with 8common and Benefits8 who have recognised the need for innovation and a new technology platform that powers and allows the whole experience of booking and planning travel to be effortless and enjoyable whilst also maintaining the highest compliance standards."
Executive Chairman of 8Common, Nic Lim says he's proud to see such an exciting and innovative partnership get off the ground.
"With this powerful alliance, 8common aims offer a seamless ecosystem that keeps the lines clear between business and leisure travel," says Lim.
"Benefits8 customers will have access to an enhanced travel booking experience through TRAVLR featuring an industry leading network of flights, hotels & resorts, Agoda homes inventory, cruising, as well as more than 200,000+ experiences and activities from across the globe."
Shares in 8common are up 2.86 per cent to $0.18 per share at 10.31am AEST.
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