lastminute

Lastminute is a term that describes the procurement or arrangement of products at the latest feasible moment before a deadline. In travel and leisure, it commonly refers to discounted inventory offered for near-term departures or bookings, usually with tight schedules, limited availability, and often restrictive cancellation terms.

Lastminute.com is a European online travel agency that capitalized on this concept. It was founded in 1998 in London by Martha Lane Fox and Brent Hoberman and grew into a major platform offering flights, hotels, holidays, and experiences in multiple languages. In 2005, the company was acquired by Sabre Corporation, integrating its inventory and technology into a broader travel network.

The business model centers on aggregating unsold inventory and marketing it through time-limited deals, flash sales, and package offers. Revenue typically comes from commissions, markups, and advertising. Offers emphasize speed and convenience, appealing to travelers seeking lower prices even if flexibility or cancellation options are limited.

Last-minute travel shopping helped drive the growth of online travel agencies and influenced pricing strategies across the industry. The space faces competition from global players such as Expedia and Booking Holdings, as well as regional platforms. Critics note that last-minute deals can carry restrictive terms, limited choice at peak times, and the potential for promotions that are not always as favorable as they appear.

The concept remains widespread in online travel, with many platforms offering last-minute inventory alongside traditional bookings. The term is also used more broadly to describe spontaneous shopping or planning in other consumer sectors.