Where did Softrip start, and where are we going? Our dedicated team is proud to serve multi-day tour operators around the world that are creating transformative travel experiences. Created by tour operators, for tour operators, Softrip’s past, present, and future is committed to providing the best technology in the industry.
Softrip has carved out a unique legacy in the travel industry, leveraging decades of experience to deliver better solutions for tour operators. With over 26 years in business and a team boasting more than 150 years of combined expertise, Softrip has continuously worked and grown to meet the needs of its customers. Though much has changed (and will continue to change) over the years for our company and for the industry, Softrip remains the leading software system that helps multi-day tour operators provide exceptional travel experiences.
The Beginning: Softrip Within Gate 1
Softrip originated in 1997 as part of Gate 1 Travel, a leading multi-day tour operator. Dani Pipano, Gate 1 Travel’s President, along with his son Tal Pipano, identified the need for innovative multi-day tour operator software to help scale and grow their business. They emphasized automation and system flexibility as key factors for success. Tal assembled a small team to develop the initial version of the platform, known as the Travel Tracking System (TTS). Over time, the platform evolved through multiple iterations, including Softrip Net and, most recently, “Softrip Next.” These innovations were instrumental in supporting Gate 1 Travel’s rapid growth.
As other multi-day tour operators began encountering similar challenges—such as the need for powerful systems to scale their businesses, support diverse travel types, increase revenue, and streamline operations—Dani and Tal saw the potential for Softrip beyond internal use. In 2004, they began selling their previously internal travel technology to external customers. Between 2004 and 2021, Softrip built a customer base that included marquee names in the multi-day tour operator space, achieving this without any spending on sales or marketing. All growth was organic, driven by referrals and word of mouth, based on Softrip’s proven track record and innovative solutions.
During this time, Softrip’s team of skilled engineers continuously enhanced the platform to meet the demands of its growing customer base. Product improvements included expanded capabilities for FIT (Fully Independent Travel), accounting, air integrations, and new connectivity options. The company also expanded its team, bringing in best-in-class engineers with extensive knowledge of the multi-day tour operator industry. Developing Softrip alongside Gate 1 Travel allowed for a deep understanding of tour operators’ needs, enabling rapid solution development. Softrip’s partnership with Gate 1 Travel fueled its ability to adapt and grow, enhancing operational efficiencies and technological innovation.
Softrip Becomes Independent
As they say, all good things must come to an end! While Softrip benefitted greatly from its origins within Gate 1 Travel, the business eventually reached a tipping point. The team faced a crucial decision: Should they continue supporting Gate 1 Travel or focus on their rapidly expanding customer base? Balancing both became increasingly difficult. By this stage, the platform had fully matured, and the growing customer demand for advanced solutions made it clear that Softrip needed to operate independently as a software system.
At the time, Softrip was primarily composed of engineers, and it became necessary to shift focus to new areas such as customer success, product development, and sales and marketing. In October 2021, Softrip was acquired by a group of long-term private investors with a focus on travel and technology. Following the acquisition, Betsy Harbison became CEO, and Softrip made a clean break from Gate 1 Travel.
With the backing of supportive investors, Softrip embarked on its journey as an independent business and team. This separation opened the door to a new stage of growth, allowing Softrip to reach a broader range of prospective customers and unlock its full potential.
From Early Softrip to Today & Beyond
Since its transformation in October 2021, Softrip has experienced significant milestones and growth. The company has built dedicated teams for customer success, product development, sales, and marketing, all with the goal of delivering superior service, innovative solutions, and driving growth. While retaining its historical team, Softrip also brought in new leadership across various functions, creating a blend of 150+ years of combined industry experience alongside fresh perspectives and strategies.
Softrip has expanded its customer base, navigated challenges, and steered the company towards sustainable growth. As the travel industry rapidly evolves, Softrip is well-positioned to maintain its competitive edge through innovation and adaptability. The company is committed to staying ahead by embracing emerging technologies, fostering strategic partnerships, and continuously enhancing its platform to meet the changing needs of tour operators worldwide.
Softrip is dedicated to serving tour operators globally, empowering them to create unforgettable travel experiences. Proud of its rich history and the journey from Gate 1, the Softrip team looks forward to a future filled with innovation and growth. While no longer a part of Gate 1, the company values its origins and the experiences that have shaped its path. With new resources and energy built on a foundation of expertise, the Softrip platform will continue to improve its offerings and reach new customers in the multi-day tour operator space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the benefits to being built within Gate 1 Travel?
- Being built alongside a best-in-class tour operator ensured our team developed a deep understanding of tour operator needs and pain point and built a mature software platform.
- It also helped our solution achieved strong product-market fit within the multi-day tour operator space and to be on the cutting edge of what to think about next for the travel industry.
Does Softrip still have a relationship with Gate 1 Travel?
- Gate 1 Travel is no longer a Softrip customer, and there is no ongoing relationship. There was a clean break between Gate 1 Travel and Softrip as of October 2021,
Has Gate 1 ever had access to Softrip customer data? Where does the data live today?
- Absolutely not. While there was a historical relationship, Gate 1 Travel never had access to Softrip customer data. Today, customer data lives in Amazon Web Services.
Who determines the product roadmap?
- Post October 2021, Softrip built out its first official product team. Responsibilities include speaking with customers, deep dive discovery, understanding common needs across the customer base, and prioritizing product updates.
Who are the investors behind Softrip?
- Softrip investors are a private group of 12 investors focused on technology and travel. They are long-term focused with no time horizon.
Want to be a part of our exciting journey? See how our comprehensive system works by scheduling a demo today.
