In the wake of a crisis, true visionaries appear. Tom Teichmann, CEO and founder of Azqira, is one such individual. Here, we explore how the entrepreneur saw an opportunity to innovate as the hospitality industry grappled with massive challenges.
History
In a world where each innovation begins with a crisis, Tom Teichmann and Azqira lead the charge toward a brighter future for hospitality.
“While the world moves forward with technology, hotel financing seems stuck, unchanged for centuries,” Teichmann points out. “The hospitality industry’s worldwide market size is USD 5 trillion, expected to double by 2029. Yet, it hasn’t innovated for decades,” he adds.
Teichmann recognized the lack of innovation and exclusivity in the hospitality sector, where ownership opportunities were often reserved for a privileged few. Furthermore, with experience in tech companies, platforms and marketplaces, Teichmann envisioned a future where hotel ownership benefits are accessible to all.
Moreover, together with co-founder Nawid Habib, who manages real estate businesses in the Netherlands, Teichmann assembled a team of industry experts.
The platform aims to strengthen strategic partnerships and collaboration, especially in the Middle East. Furthermore, Teichmann says: “Just look at the hotel sector there: it boasts world-class hotels and exceptional industry expertise. Moreover, there’s fast execution in terms of innovation. Consequently, we see huge potential to expand our network here.”
Plans for the future
Azqira’s first conference took place at Hotel Altis Avenida in Lisbon in June 2023, introducing the platform to investors worldwide. Subsequently, Azqira boasts over 18,500 pre-registered members and has partnered with 16 hotel owners. Moreover, it has cultivated a community spanning 22 countries.
Indeed, in the last year alone, Teichmann has spoken at conferences in Switzerland, Poland and the UK, including a self-hosted Azqira community event in Lisbon. Additionally, the company was nominated in the Technology Company category for the Leaders of Tourism 2024 award, presented by the Portuguese hospitality magazine TNews.
