Sonder's Sudden Shutdown: What Happened and What It Means for Guests
Sonder's Sudden Shutdown: What Happened and What It Means for Guests The hospitality industry is shaken as Sonder, a San Francisco-based property-tech company once valued at $1.9 billion, abruptly shuts down operations after Marriott Hotels terminated their licensing deal. This unexpected closure has left countless hotel guests stranded and raised questions about the future of both Sonder and the wider property-tech landscape. The Fallout from the Shutdown Guests who had booked their stays with Sonder found themselves in a precarious situation as hotels closed suddenly without warning. The uncertainty surrounding these cancellations has caused a significant wave of frustration, along with financial implications for those who are left searching for alternative accommodations. Why Did This Happen? Sonder's downfall appears to stem from its reliance on corporate partnerships. The termination of their licensing agreement with Marriott unveiled vulnerabilities within t...