Hostel group Safestay (AIM:SSTY) said bookings so far this year are significantly higher than this time twelve months ago.
Forward bookings from large schools and colleges have been notably higher, it said, adding this is an area where it is looking to increase its presence.
Revenues also grew strongly in 2023 though a million-pound impairment in Bratislava pushed it into the red.
Occupancy rose to 71.4% from 63%, but Safestay (AIM:SSTY) added it can do better.
Revenues in 2023 rose by 18% to £22.5 million with underlying profits [adjusted EBITDA] 15% up at £1.5 million, though after the Bratislava impairment, there was a net loss of £1.3 million
This year, 2024, had started well, added the statement, with two new acquisitions in Spain and one in Brighton while a new office has been set up in Warsaw
"Our collection of premium hostels continues to resonate with our core client base and our popularity and appeal is growing, resulting in us selling 848,633 bed nights in 2023,” Lipman said.