New Delhi: American Express Co., the New York-based credit card issuer, has acquired chatbot firm Mezi, which enables travel-related bookings over text messages, for an undisclosed amount. Mezi will become a subsidiary of American Express after the transaction is completed. It put $2.5 million in December 2015 and a part of the company’s $9-million fund-raise in July 2016, which also saw participation from Saama Capital and American Express Ventures, the strategic investment arm of American Express. While it will continue to power American Express’ AskAmex, Mezi will focus on developing its core technologies and enhance its capabilities in digital travel concierge services, the two companies said. Mezi app allows travellers to message their requests for flights, hotel and restaurant reservations, and also provides recommendations based on user preferences and past interactions on the platform.

Source: Mint January 30, 2018 16:07 UTC