Awayday Secures Major Investment Boost from Ares Management and LightBay Capital

Deal News | May 07, 2025 | Ares Private Equity Group

Awayday, an emerging travel platform, has announced a strategic investment round led by Ares Management, in collaboration with LightBay Capital. The deal is set to inject a significant amount of capital into Awayday, providing the technological and operational resources necessary for a planned expansion phase. Financial backing by Ares Management and LightBay signifies a strong vote of confidence in Awayday's vision and capability to innovate within the travel sector. Besides the financial injection, both Ares Management and LightBay will play a strategic advisory role, enhancing leadership and company positioning in competitive markets. This investment exemplifies a growing interest in travel industry disruptors that utilize technology to enhance customer experiences, ensuring that Awayday is well-positioned to leverage new opportunities in an evolving marketplace.

Sectors

  • Travel Technology
  • Private Equity

Geography

  • United States – The geographical focus is the United States as Ares Management and LightBay Capital, prominent investment firms, operate primarily out of the U.S., and Awayday is likely U.S.-based or targeting the U.S. market for expansion.

Industry

  • Travel Technology – The investment is directed towards a company operating in the Travel Technology sector, aiming to enhance customer experience through innovative solutions.
  • Private Equity – This sector is involved as Ares Management and LightBay Capital are both private equity firms investing in Awayday.

Financials

  • Not specified – The specific financial details of the investment, including the amount, have not been disclosed.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
AwaydayTarget CompanyCompanyAn innovative company in the travel technology space receiving strategic investment.
Ares ManagementInvestorCompanyA global alternative asset manager providing the strategic investment to Awayday.
LightBay CapitalCo-InvestorCompanyA private equity firm joining Ares Management in the strategic investment in Awayday.