Airbnb has acquired Accomable, a website listing accessible accommodation
Accomable, founded in 2015, with the aim of making it easier for everyone to travel, regardless of any disabilities.
The statement from Airbnb says:
"Airbnb’s mission is to create a world where anyone can belong anywhere, and that includes travelers with disabilities."
The company goes on to say that the Accomable site will be wound down with its listings across 60 countries included in Airbnb listings.
Founder Srin Madipalli and the team are to stay on with Airbnb to bring their inclusive travel expertise to the company.
Airbnb says it had already begun work to flag up accessible properties via a checklist for hosts including step-free access to rooms and hallways wide enough for wheelchairs.
The company provides more information here on how it has been working to make the platform more accessible.
It has also been carrying out audits across its digital channels to highlight what it needs to do to make those available to everyone.
A statement on the Accomable website says its team has spent "considerable time" with Airbnb's management team to ensure the startup's original mission carries on.
"Airbnb provides the best opportunity to take our dream and mission to a global level, using the current reach of Airbnb’s community of four million hosts and 100 million guests to work together and make the world more accessible."
Madipalli also says he plans to work within Airbnb to make it a great place to work for anyone with disabilities.
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