By utilising extensive data resources and adopting innovative technologies, EaseMyTrip aims to provide better travel experiences both in India and globally
India’s rich geographical and cultural regions are among the best attractions for tourists around the world to experience travelling in diverse regions. As per IBEF’s (India Brand Equity Foundation) report on the Growth of the Tourism and Hospitality Industry, travel and tourism are two of the largest industries in India, with a total contribution of about 178 billion USD to the country’s GDP.
EaseMyTrip is set to mark its presence in the travel industry by expanding its offline presence. To tap the market potential, the company aims to cater to the growing demand for customised travel experiences in India and beyond. With operations in 37 countries and a vast customer base, EaseMyTrip is poised to capture a significant share of the global travel market.
Expanding Offline Presence
EaseMyTrip recently decided to expand its offline presence. It has so far opened 16 offline stores in Jaipur, Delhi, Agra, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Pune, Surat, Jalgaon, Gurugram and others. It is planning to touch the 100-store mark by the end of FY 25.
Rikant Pittie, Co-founder at EaseMyTrip, talked about the plans to expand its offline presence to better serve customers seeking personalised holiday packages. This will also help to build visibility and trust among customers. “We’re opening offering groups to help customers get the customisation they desire. This strategic move will provide travellers with tailored options, enhancing their overall travel experience,” said Pittie.
Leveraging Technology
For over a decade, Indian companies have been using technology to drive growth in the travel sector. Innovations like search engines, global distribution systems (GDS) and online travel agencies have transformed the industry. EaseMyTrip recently became the 12th unicorn startup in digital commerce.
Commenting on leveraging technology, Pittie talked about how EasyMyTrip boasts a super efficient team and cutting-edge technology. He said that the company’s focus on artificial intelligence (AI) aims to provide users with valuable insights about various destinations, including religious temples across India. “By utilising data from its 13 million users, EasyMyTrip can offer highly personalised travel recommendations,” he added.
Domestic Tourism at the Forefront
The rich geographical and climatic conditions provide lucrative options for visitors in India. Domestic tourism remains a key factor in the Indian tourism market. According to FICCI, the travel industry is expected to employ nearly 53 million people directly or indirectly by 2029.
Talking on the same lines, Pittie highlighted the country’s diverse attractions, from the serene backwaters of Kerala to the majestic peaks of the Himalayas. He stated that India is a beautiful country with countless hidden gems.
EaseMyTrip aims to raise awareness about these lesser-known destinations through targeted marketing campaigns and collaborations with local tourism boards. “By encouraging domestic travel, the company seeks to boost the local economy and provide travellers with unique and culturally enriching experiences,” he added.
Pittie highlighted the government’s attempt to position India as a global tourist destination, which is evident in the Union Budget 2024-25. It demonstrates efforts to promote religious tourism and domestic tourism infrastructure. “With a special focus on Bihar, Nalanda and Odisha, the government plans to develop iconic religious sites to support its infrastructure and transform them into world-class pilgrim and tourist destinations. We are optimistic that this will enhance the overall experience of the tourists visiting these religious sites and will uplift state tourism,” he added further.
AI to Bring a Better Travel Experience
EasyMyTrip’s commitment to technology is evident in its use of AI and data analytics to enhance customer experiences. By leveraging its extensive user data, the company can offer personalised travel recommendations tailored to individual preferences. For instance, AI-driven insights can suggest the best times to visit certain destinations, recommend nearby attractions and even provide real-time updates on weather and traffic conditions.
Pittie disclosed the innovative ways to integrate technology into the travel experience. The company is developing mobile apps that provide users with on-the-go travel assistance, such as navigation aids and personalised itineraries. These apps will also offer features like augmented reality (AR) tours, allowing travellers to explore historical sites and landmarks in an immersive manner.
Aiming for Going Global
EasyMyTrip’s ambitious global expansion strategy is designed to position the company as a leading player in the international travel market. The company is targeting key markets such as Mumbai, Thailand, London, the USA and Saudi Arabia, with plans to be present in 10 countries by the end of the year. “Very few companies from India have been able to take their business global and EaseMyTrip is set to become one of them with our cost-effective operations and innovative approach,” he added.
To support its global expansion, EaseMyTrip is investing in localised marketing campaigns tailored to the preferences and travel behaviours of different regions. It is also focusing on strategic alliances with airlines, hotels and other travel service providers to enhance its global offerings. These partnerships enable the company to provide comprehensive travel solutions, including flights, accommodation and local tours, all within a single platform.
