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Airbnb Expands Beyond Home Rentals With Hotels, Car Rentals and Delivery Services

Airbnb is broadening its platform to encompass travel and living services beyond residential accommodations. The company added independent hotels, vehicle rentals, grocery delivery, and luggage storage to its marketplace. This expansion represents the latest phase of a multi-step initiative launched last summer that has already introduced social features and expanded service categories.

Guests can now book boutique hotels through the platform while earning up to 15% in credits. The company envisions potential future additions including equipment rentals for activities such as skiing and surfing, along with gym passes.

CEO Brian Chesky characterized the fragmented travel and living market as a significant opportunity, comparing Airbnb's trajectory to major retail platforms. The company has also enhanced its customer service chatbot capabilities. The chatbot can now resolve booking complications directly within conversations.