Stay22 Commemorates 10 Years of Transforming Travel Bookings with Over $2 Billion Facilitated

Stay22 Celebrates 10 Years of Success

In a decade of significant growth, Stay22, the innovative intent monetization platform, has facilitated over $2 billion in travel bookings through its advanced technology. The company, which aims to empower creators and digital platforms, has witnessed remarkable expansion since its inception, with the network of creators increasing from about 3,000 in 2024 to more than 10,000 today.

Founded in 2016 by Hamed Al-Khabbaz and Andrew Lockhead, Stay22 emerged from a personal need - Al-Khabbaz faced difficulty finding accommodations during an e-sports event. Initially focusing on proximity bookings for events, the company has evolved into a robust travel monetization tool that helps creators earn revenue through their travel content.

The pandemic in March 2020, which threatened to halt their progress by eliminating over 90% of revenue overnight, became a pivotal moment for Stay22. The team swiftly pivoted to local travel and collaborated with bloggers and content creators, unlocking a previously untapped revenue stream. This strategic shift, coupled with the discontinuation of Airbnb's affiliate program in 2021, prompted Stay22 to diversify its offerings with partnerships from major suppliers such as Vrbo and Trivago.

In an era where traveler intent is paramount, Stay22's platform connects inspiring content with booking options, allowing creators and publishers to capitalize on the interest they ignite. “We help turn the intent into income,” remarks Andrew Lockhead, co-founder and CEO, highlighting the unwavering commitment to rewarding those whose content motivates travel.

A New Brand Identity

To commemorate this milestone, Stay22 has refreshed its brand, launching with the tagline “StayGolden” and a new visual identity that centers around the creators themselves. The design draws on original illustrations and photography from Stay22’s community, acknowledging their contributions to the brand’s success.

“After ten years, we remain hungry but are now backed by trust gained over the years,” says Lockhead, emphasizing the company’s dedication to creators. The revitalized campaign, themed “Another World is Calling,” aims to further engage and recognize the pivotal role of content creators and publishers within travel monetization.

The Path Ahead

As it steps into another decade, Stay22 has ambitious plans. The company aims to expand beyond travel, using its successful formula to monetize audience engagement across other industries. With a recent $122 million investment from Summit Partners, Stay22 is set to fuel its global expansion, enhance product development, and explore new verticals.

The travel landscape is also evolving with the introduction of AI in travel planning. With 71% of surveyed creators reportedly adopting AI tools according to a study by Stay22 and Travel Massive, the platform recognizes the changing dynamics of consumer behavior. Al-Khabbaz outlines the future vision: “As AI transforms how users search for information, visible and fairly compensated creators will become even more crucial.”

Conclusion

Stay22’s journey over the past ten years is a testament to the power of adaptability, innovation, and community support. More than just a booking platform, Stay22 envisions a future where every traveler’s journey begins with the trusted content of a creator. As it celebrates this momentous anniversary, the company reinforces its mission to empower the creators who play a significant role in the tourism ecosystem. With its technology facilitating over 10,000 bookings daily globally, Stay22 stands as a vital player in the ongoing evolution of travel monetization.

For more details about Stay22 and its offerings, visit stay22.com.