The global lifestyle and tourism market has proven to be one of the most resilient and biggest sectors. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the global travel and tourism industry grew by 22% in 2022, contributing $7.7 trillion to the world economy. In Africa, tourism alone contributed $183 billion to the economy in 2023, and the market is projected to grow significantly in the coming decade as Africa positions itself as a key player in the global tourism landscape.
Lost in a City, known for its tourism insights and lifestyle experiences, has been enabling discovery through its platforms and events for 14 years. In November 2022, they took a bold step by launching their tech arm, the Awari App. “This innovative platform, dedicated to the lifestyle and tourism industries, connects users with the rich, vibrant pulse of Lagos and Abuja while offering a comprehensive suite of tools that small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) need to succeed” – Tannaz Bahnam, Founder and CEO, the Awari App tells us.
Coupled with Africa’s booming lifestyle industry—which includes hospitality, food, beauty, and wellness—the opportunities for growth are immense. However, many small lifestyle businesses across the continent struggle with visibility and customer retention. Awari steps in to solve this problem by providing a powerful platform that bridges the gap between these businesses and their target audiences. Using data-driven insights, Awari helps SMEs such as restaurants, beauty salons, and retail stores improve their service delivery, build customer loyalty, and process transactions seamlessly.
Awari is more than a discovery tool—it’s a growth accelerator for businesses. The platform offers businesses visibility across the hospitality, retail, beauty, and wellness sectors, giving them access to a pool of potential customers. The app equips SMEs with user-friendly tools for managing customer relationships, from loyalty programs to driving sales, all while gathering valuable customer data. This helps businesses stay competitive in a digital-first world where data is essential for long-term success. Businesses can track customer preferences, improve marketing strategies, and optimise service offerings. The use of digital tools in Africa’s market has been instrumental in creating an estimated 30% increase in customer engagement for small businesses, and Awari is poised to expand this impact even further.
Enhancing User Experiences
For users, Awari is a lifestyle companion that enhances how people interact with their cities. Whether it’s discovering new restaurants, exploring cultural landmarks, or staying updated on local events, Awari offers personalised recommendations and curated guides to amplify city exploration. The platform is designed to make it easier for users to experience the best their city has to offer, fostering deeper connections with local businesses and communities. Available on iOS, Google Play, and as a web app, Awari ensures that users and vendors alike have seamless access to the platform’s features. By merging technology with lifestyle and tourism, Awari is setting new standards for how individuals and businesses can thrive in urban ecosystems.
Awari x Vision for Global Impact
Awari’s journey doesn’t end with Nigeria. As part of its long-term vision, the platform is focused on scaling its operations across emerging markets, leveraging the growing demand for digital lifestyle solutions. With Africa at the heart of its expansion strategy, Awari is eyeing broader markets in the Middle East, tapping into the $275 billion tourism industry, and expanding into other vibrant cultural hubs where lifestyle businesses are key to economic growth.
Awari’s mission is clear: to become the leading platform redefining discovery for users and businesses in emerging lifestyle and tourism markets. As it continues to innovate and expand, the Awari App will play a critical role in driving economic development and supercharging lifestyle experiences for users around the world.
For more information, visit Awari App.
