OYO Updates Policy: Unmarried Couples Now Required to Show Relationship Proof for Hotel Check-Ins
Popular online hotel booking platform OYO has revised its check-in policy for unmarried couples. Effective immediately in select regions, unmarried couples must provide valid proof of their relationship to complete the check-in process.
Policy Details
Pawas Sharma, Region Head of OYO North India, explained, “OYO is committed to upholding safe and responsible hospitality practices. While we respect individual freedoms and personal liberties, we also recognize our responsibility to work collaboratively with law enforcement agencies and civil society groups in the micro-markets we operate in. This policy will be periodically reviewed to assess its impact and feasibility.”
The updated policy applies to both online and offline bookings. OYO has instructed its partner hotels to refuse check-ins for couples unable to present relationship documentation. The initiative has been rolled out in Meerut and will soon be implemented nationwide.
About OYO
OYO, short for “On Your Own,” was founded in 2013 by Ritesh Agarwal, a young entrepreneur from India. The company revolutionized the hospitality industry by standardizing budget hotels, offering consistent services, and leveraging technology to make booking seamless and affordable.
Investment and Expansion
OYO quickly gained global recognition and financial backing from prominent investors such as SoftBank, Sequoia Capital, and Lightspeed Venture Partners. The company raised over $4 billion in funding, with SoftBank’s Vision Fund being a key contributor. OYO expanded aggressively into international markets, including Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States, and at its peak operated in over 80 countries with 43,000 partner hotels.
The Downfall and Rebuilding
Despite its meteoric rise, OYO faced significant challenges starting in 2019. The company was criticized for strained relationships with hotel partners, high cash burn, and over-expansion. The COVID-19 pandemic further compounded its woes as global travel came to a halt, forcing OYO to cut costs, lay off staff, and close many unprofitable operations.'
The Comeback
In recent years, OYO has focused on restructuring its business model, improving partner relations, and enhancing customer satisfaction. By prioritizing sustainable growth and leveraging its core technology platform, OYO has regained stability and continues to attract millions of travelers each month.
Present Day OYO
Today, OYO operates over 18,000 hotels and offers approximately 270,000 rooms across India alone. The platform accommodates more than 100,000 guests daily, making it one of the largest hospitality players globally. Its app, which is widely popular among young travelers and couples, offers hassle-free bookings, competitive pricing, and a wide range of property options.
By implementing the updated check-in policy, OYO aims to align its practices with local laws and societal expectations while continuing to provide quality services to its customers. The company’s resilience and innovation have solidified its position as a leader in the hospitality industry.
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