Airbnb is expanding its business model and will increasingly compete with traditional hotels starting in summer 2025. The platform will launch the new "Airbnb Services" segment in Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, and 256 other cities worldwide. Users will then be able to directly book not only accommodations but also hotel-like services such as private chefs, masseurs, fitness trainers, or hairdressers via the redesigned app. The goal of this expansion is to offset the previous disadvantage of private accommodations compared to hotels – the often lacking range of services. Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky explained that the aim is to combine "the best of both worlds": the individuality of Airbnb accommodations with the services that travelers have previously primarily experienced in hotels. At launch, the offering will include ten service categories, including spa treatments, photo shoots, and nail care. Prices for the services will start at under $50. Service providers must apply for inclusion in the offering and will be screened for their qualifications. Airbnb charges a 15 percent commission on the booked services. Experts see this move as significantly more direct competition with the hotel industry. Tomaso Duso of DIW Berlin emphasized that Airbnb has so far lacked the comprehensive services that many hotel guests expect. The new offering could therefore specifically address new target groups. It is noteworthy that booking the services is not tied to an accommodation booking through Airbnb, but can also be used by locals or hotel guests. Airbnb is thus strategically developing into a more general service marketplace. This creates a serious competitor for the hotel industry in the area of ​​additional services, where hotels have previously had an advantage through their own staff and service quality.