OYO, the global hospitality giant, has entered the Australia and New Zealand markets by acquiring Australian short-term rental management startup MadeComfy. The acquisition was made through OYO’s European vacation home subsidiary, Belvilla, marking a major step in the company’s global expansion.
MadeComfy will continue to operate as an independent brand after the acquisition. The startup, founded in 2015 by Quirin Schwaighofer and Sabrina Bethunin, currently manages over 1,200 properties and has recorded a gross booking value of USD 60 million, according to media reports.
Founders Continue Leadership
Following the deal, MadeComfy’s co-founders will remain in leadership roles, continuing to grow the company’s presence. MadeComfy serves property developers, landlords, and real estate agencies through its MadeComfyPro platform.
In a LinkedIn post, co-founder Schwaighofer confirmed the news, expressing excitement about joining the OYO group. He said the startup will now benefit from OYO’s advanced technology, global processes, and hospitality expertise while maintaining its brand identity.
Deal Details and Expansion Goals
The acquisition deal reportedly includes USD 1.9 million in upfront equity and USD 9.6 million in deferred stock, along with an undisclosed cash payment. The acquisition is part of OYO’s broader international growth strategy as it looks to expand its footprint and strengthen its business amid a delayed IPO process.
OYO’s Founder and CEO, Ritesh Agarwal, welcomed MadeComfy to the OYO family, stating that the collaboration will help drive innovation and growth. The Indian hospitality company is currently valued at around USD 5 billion, according to reports.
New Zealand and Australia
This move gives OYO an entry into the strong hospitality markets of Australia and New Zealand. MadeComfy’s strong local presence and property network will help OYO grow its vacation rental business in these regions. The acquisition also adds to OYO’s portfolio of hospitality brands, which includes Checkmyguest, G6 Hospitality, and Belvilla.
By combining MadeComfy’s regional expertise with OYO’s technology-driven approach, the company aims to capture a significant share of the short-term rental market. The acquisition is expected to bring new opportunities for property owners and travelers across Australia and New Zealand.
