Relux

Loco Partners Inc., operating under the brand name Relux, functions as a specialized online travel agency focused on the high-end segment of the Japanese accommodation market. The company was founded in September 2011 by Keisuke篠づか (Keisuke Shinozuka). Before launching Loco Partners, Shinozuka gained experience at Recruit Co., Ltd., which likely provided him with foundational knowledge of the hospitality and booking industries.

The firm's core business revolves around its curated booking platform, Relux (rlx.jp), which meticulously selects and lists luxury hotels and traditional Japanese inns (ryokans). Relux distinguishes itself from mass-market booking sites by employing a rigorous evaluation process. A dedicated review committee, composed of individuals with extensive travel experience, assesses potential accommodations against approximately 100 criteria, ensuring that only top-tier properties are featured. This model targets discerning travelers seeking premium and satisfying lodging experiences, moving beyond simple price-based comparisons.

Relux generates revenue by charging a commission or service fee on bookings made through its platform, a standard practice in the online travel agency sector. The client base includes both domestic Japanese travelers and an increasing number of international tourists, facilitated by the platform's availability in multiple languages. A significant milestone in the company's trajectory occurred in February 2017, when it was acquired by and became a consolidated subsidiary of KDDI Corporation, a major Japanese telecommunications operator. This acquisition provided Loco Partners with substantial resources and strategic backing, enabling further growth. Following the acquisition, the company has expanded its user base significantly, reaching over 2 million members by 2020 and broadening its market presence in East and Southeast Asia.

Keywords: luxury travel, ryokan booking, curated accommodation, Japanese hospitality, online travel agency, hotel reservation, travel-tech, premium lodging, inbound tourism, KDDI group