Annie Sloan

Annie Sloan

Former HGTV Producer and Creative Director at Facebook, and today an avid traveler and a successful Airbnb host, Annie Sloan is the co-founder and CEO of The Host Co., a digital commerce marketplace for short-term rentals. The company’s platform enables hosts to create an online store to sell anything in their property, from the snacks in the fridge to the art on the walls. There are also additional preorder services including “stock my pantry” and connections to local artisan products for sale. Guests can make purchases before or during their stay.

How Retailers Can Work With Airbnbs and Other Short-Term Rental Companies

Over the past several years, short-term rentals (STRs), like Airbnbs, have gained significant popularity among travelers. Occupancy rates set records in 2021 as the demand for these properties increased a staggering 27.5 percent. One reason for the sharp rise is that short-term rentals offer a more personable alternative to hotels and motels. STRs usually have…

My Kingdom for Gatorade: Cross-Selling Exactly What Customers Want

Imagine waking up in your Airbnb rental the morning after a good friend’s wedding. You didn’t hold back on the partying and immediately think, “I would give anything for some Advil and a Gatorade. And, I’d give my right arm if it was already here.” This is a common scenario. People want immediate access to…