Michigan-based travel technology company TWAI has officially acquired Brisbane start-up Travello, as first reported by Travel Weekly on June 6.
Founded in Australia, Travello is best known for its social platform that connects travellers with tours, activities, and like-minded people. The company has raised over $20 million since launch and has seen rapid growth, particularly in domestic travel. Over the past three years, it has averaged 228 per cent year-on-year growth in Total Transaction Value (TTV), driven by post-COVID recovery and demand for local experiences.
TWAI (Travel Wholesale and Internet), owned by brothers Trideep and Moondeep Aggarwal, operates a platform that links travel suppliers such as airlines and hotels with distribution partners including travel agencies.
The acquisition marks TWAI’s entry into the fast-growing tours and activities sector across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas.
“Entering the tours and activities market has been a key strategic priority for TWAI,” said Moondeep Aggarwal, co-founder and COO. “Travello brings an engaged community, proven demand, and strong distribution systems – all aligned with our global vision.”
Travello and its associated brand, Backpacker Deals, combine social features with booking functionality, positioning TWAI to grow its direct-to-consumer business, strengthen partner integrations, and tap into new revenue streams.
Trideep Aggarwal, TWAI co-founder and CEO, said the deal will also open new B2B opportunities.
“We’re excited to work with Ryan Hanly, Joshua Wicks and the Travello team,” he said. “This move allows us to offer curated experiences through partners in the reseller ecosystem, while enhancing personalisation and cross-sell options for our current clients.”
TWAI and Travello plan to roll out joint solutions for airlines, online travel agencies, and loyalty platforms over the coming months, beginning with pilot markets in Australia and New Zealand, North America and Southeast Asia.
