The following statement is a response from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) regarding Airbnb's purchase of HotelTonight app. The statement below is attributable to William "Chip" Rogers, President and CEO of AHLA.

"Airbnb's latest scheme is just further proof the company is playing in the hotel space while evading industry regulations. It's also likely a realization by Airbnb that their current business model is flawed with its reliance on income from illegal activity by commercial investors using their site. We're not surprised by this move given major cities, including New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. just passed strong short-term rental laws last year to rein in Airbnb. Not to mention they are facing an outcry form a broad-based coalition of residents, affordable housing, labor and community leaders about their negative impact on housing and neighborhoods across the country. This move is likely a knee-jerk reaction to offset their financial losses when these regulations take effect this year and in anticipation of other major cities likely to pass similar laws."

"If Airbnb wants to enter the hotel business, then it needs to do so on a level playing field and be regulated, taxed and subject to the same safety compliances and oversight that law-abiding hotel companies adhere to each and every day."

About the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA)

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the sole national association representing all segments of the U.S. lodging industry. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AHLA focuses on strategic advocacy, communications support and workforce development programs to move the industry forward. Learn more at www.ahla.com.

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