It’s a match: Singapore’s Lunch Actually and Paktor merge to expand pool of potential suitors

Dating platforms Lunch Actually and Paktor have officially joined hands and merged to enhance users’ dating experiences.

In a statement released yesterday (September 9, 2024), the brands shared that this business move is to spark more romantic connections and support singles in their journey to find love.

For context, Lunch Actually provides a matchmaking service by arranging lunchtime dates for people who are too busy to actively look for a partner, while Paktor is a dating app that lets you meet people by swiping on profiles.

Given the increased dating app fatigue faced by users, Lunch Actually and Paktor have spotted a growing need for a holistic suite of integrated online and offline dating services, to boost singles’ chances of finding aligned partners.

It’s an interesting approach as many users typically go for one or the either (online or offline dating services). Hence, the goal of the merger is to address the pain points of using just one medium to find matches.

“Our strength lies in connecting people through technology and digital dating experiences. This merger is a timely one, enabling us to complement our online services with a wider range of offline services. We hope to offer singles fun and authentic dating experiences that lead to lasting romantic connections,” Alex Tam, Group CEO of Paktor, stated.

Sharing the same sentiment, Violet Lim, CEO of Lunch Actually, said, “This strategic merger will demonstrate the company’s commitment to charting a path towards sustained growth and market leadership in the ever-evolving dating landscape, paving the path for future acquisitions and continuous growth in the regional market,” she noted.

“It amplifies our capabilities, expands our reach, and enhances our resources. [It’s also] empowering us to touch more lives and craft more love stories across Asia than we ever dreamed possible.”

Joining forces for greater love?

The ultimate goal here is to tap into each agency’s resources and best practices to improve their services for customers. This includes gathering dating insights and preferences accumulated from each brand’s algorithms to increase users’ chances of success in finding a partner.

Regarding services, the agencies will offer enhanced personalised solutions that blend traditional dating wisdom with technology, such as relationship coaching. 

Existing clients of the two platforms will likewise benefit from a wider range of services too. The details of this weren’t disclosed in the press release.

Moving forward, the brands will continue to operate independently but will be under a new holding entity called Lunch Actually Paktor Group. Violet will be taking on the role of Group CEO of this new entity.

Both companies were founded and are headquartered in Singapore. Together, they have a combined experience of over three decades in connecting singles across the region. 

At the time of writing, Lunch Actually has a presence in three other countries outside of Singapore and 1.2 million members. On the other hand, Paktor is available in five other nations and boasts approximately 20 million users.

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