History of Sonder
Sonder is a global hospitality company founded in 2014 by Francis Davidson and Nathan Babcock. The company's goal is to offer travelers a unique blend of hotel and vacation rental experiences. Sonder began by providing short-term rental units in upscale residential buildings, focusing on delivering high-quality accommodations with modern designs and tech-enabled amenities. They sought to disrupt the traditional hotel industry by offering a more personalized, apartment-style stay with services typically found in hotels, such as 24/7 support and cleaning.
In the early years, Sonder expanded rapidly, establishing a presence in major cities across North America and Europe. The company adopted a model that emphasizes flexibility and convenience, allowing travelers to book stays through an app, while property owners could monetize their vacant units. Sonder's success was driven by its focus on design, technology, and customer experience. Over time, the company also began managing properties, providing a more consistent experience for both guests and property owners.
By 2020, Sonder had raised significant funding, allowing it to scale its operations even further. The company continued to evolve, introducing new features such as contactless check-in and enhanced safety protocols to meet the demands of modern travelers. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Sonder adapted its business model and embraced remote work trends by offering longer stays, targeting digital nomads, and diversifying its portfolio. Today, Sonder operates hundreds of properties worldwide and is recognized for its innovative approach to hospitality.