Exclusive: thrive-backed Fora has raised $60 million for a travel agent platform that can withstand a recession.

Here's our roundup of the people, product and partner news from the global travel industry this week.SITASITA announced three partnerships this week. The company has signed an agreement with Matarat Holding to advance the digital transformation of airports across Saudi Arabia. The deal aims to implement scalable technologies to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency. SITA’s biometric solutions are already in use at major airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and NEOM.The airline information technology (IT) specialist also partnered with NEC Corporation in an effort to accelerate adoption of digital identity technology in travel. NEC will join SITA’s Digital Travel Ecosystem, an open framework that enables secure, real-time identity verification without complex integrations. SITA and Airportr have also signed a five-year agreement to expand off-airport baggage handling services, in response to rising traveler demand for home or hotel bag pickup. Airportr’s delivery platform is set to integrate with SITA’s Flex and Bag Journey systems.EDreams Odigeo reaches 7.25M subscribersEDreams Odigeo has reached its goal of 7.25 million Prime subscribers nearly a year ahead of schedule, quadrupling its base since 2021, when the goal was set. “7.25 million isn't just a figure; it's yet more proof of our capacity to execute on a long-term vision and deliver on our promises,” said Dana Dunne, CEO of eDreams Odigeo. He credited the platform’s growth to its scalable model and tech-driven approach

On Tuesday (Aug. 6), Instacart announced an expansion of its service portfolio as part of its strategy to solidify its position in the online grocery market. The company has forged a new partnership with Uber Eats, enabling customers to order both groceries and restaurant meals through the Instacart app. This integration aims to attract new users and boost order frequency, the company said as it released its earnings report. In addition, Instacart is broadening its retail collaborations with new partners such as Sally Beauty and The Home Depot, while also upgrading its Storefront technology to drive growth for these retailers. In her second-quarter letter to shareholders, CEO Fidji Simo noted Instacart is investing in an “ambitious portfolio of longer-term bets that are starting to show promise and have the ability to unlock new growth opportunities