Independent Hostels Ltd was founded 32 years ago. This Matlock-based company is a membership organisation which supports a network of over 300 accommodation providers in the hostel and bunkhouse sector. Members are included on the Independent Hostel website, in an annual Guidebook and on social media. In 2022 Independent Hostels Ltd was ranked as the third most ethical booking platform by Ethical Consumer magazine.
The £7.8k Business Development Grant has funded an upgrade to the members’ online booking system, allowing bookings for rooms and dorm beds whilst preserving dates further into the future for exclusive use bookings. This specifically developed new software – a Cascading Accommodation Release tool – thus provides additional functionality for the membership and will enable the company to move into new markets.
Samantha Dalley (Managing Director) says...
We are delighted to have recently been awarded a grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund through the Derbyshire Dales District Council so we can push forward with revolutionising how hostel bookings are made.
Our booking system makes it easy for hostels and bunkhouses to take reservations without paying commissions to the large booking platforms. This grant will enable the accommodation to take more last-minute bookings for couples, families and solo travelers and stay economically secure.
This grant scheme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF)
