LekkeSlaap, a platform that grew from a garage startup and now connects travelers with over 40,000 properties, is entering a new phase of development under the management of new South African owners.
The company was acquired by a consortium of South African investors, marking the exit of co-founders Jonathan Wormersley and Marcel van der Ginste, as well as other long-standing shareholders.
Investment firms such as Bellair Road Investment Partners and Janic Capital, along with family offices Ferreira Family Office and Moolman Family Office, and Investec were involved in the deal. LekkeSlaap's management also invested alongside the consortium and will continue to lead the business.
The company's history began in 2009 as a travel technology startup, with LekkeSlaap itself launched in 2013. Today, the platform has served over nine million guests since its inception and provides access to more than 40,000 properties across South Africa.
For Wormersley, this acquisition represents the culmination of an entrepreneurial journey during which the business transformed into one of South Africa's most recognizable online travel brands. He noted that growing LekkeSlaap from a small company to a brand loved by millions of South Africans brought him immense satisfaction.
Wormersley emphasized the importance of finding new owners who share the company's culture, values, and vision. He expressed confidence that they have found suitable long-term owners and eagerly anticipates what the management team and new owners will build.
The acquisition ensures that LekkeSlaap remains in South African hands, combining long-term local investment with the existing management team. Marcel Boezart, a partner at Bellair Road Investment Partners, characterized LekkeSlaap as an example of a successful South African story. He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the brand and enthusiasm for its development into a 'durable South African tech champion,' building on the foundations laid by Jonathan, Marcel, and the team.
CEO Frans Jobert and the current management team will continue to lead LekkeSlaap. Jobert stated that this deal marks an exciting new chapter in South Africa's remarkable entrepreneurial history. He added that LekkeSlaap retains its spirit of independence and local character, but with the support of the right partners, the company can set even more ambitious goals.
LekkeSlaap has also strengthened its board of directors by appointing two South African business leaders. Herman Bosmana, Chairman of OUTsurance Group and Fortress Real Estate, and former CEO of RMB Holdings and RMI Holdings, has been appointed as Chairman of LekkeSlaap. He is joined by Robert Paddock, co-founder of GetSmarter and Valenture Institute. Both—Bosmana through Atelier Partners and Paddock—invested alongside the new investors.
Bosmana noted that LekkeSlaap demonstrated the potential that South African entrepreneurs can create through persistence and ambition. He expressed his willingness to join LekkeSlaap as Chairman to guide and support Frans, the management team, and other shareholders as LekkeSlaap enters its next phase of growth.
For the millions of guests, thousands of hosts, and industry partners, LekkeSlaap's operations will remain unchanged. The platform will continue to provide booking services and customer support. New investments are expected to allow the business to expand its ambitions and accelerate growth. Jobert stated that their goal is simple: 'to put Africa on the map.' He added that the next phase will allow expansion across South Africa, deeper investment in technology and localization, and improved experiences for guests and hosts.