Justin McLeod Believes Hinge Users Will Spend Summer Looking For Serious Relationships

12th April 2021 Dominic Whitlock

Hinge CEO Justin McLeod is predicting the rest of 2021 will see a massive boom in offline dates, as singles receive their vaccines and feel more comfortable meeting up with different people.

Speaking in an interview with Business Insider, McLeod explained that the warmer weather and lack of restrictions will encourage daters to get back out there.

He expects that Hinge users specifically are keen to find a long-term partner after the lockdown restrictions gave them time to reflect on where they are in their romantic journey. According to company data, over 30% of users are feeling more urgency to settle down, while over half are actively seeking a serious relationship.

McLeod told Business Insider: “I do think for a lot of people who maybe have been dating for a while and then went through the pandemic and went through it alone, they’re feeling the need for a partner and companionship more than ever.”

A report from Tinder at the end of March has predicted an upcoming ‘Summer Of Love’, with young people excited for their social lives to return after a year being cooped up indoors.

Hinge saw a 63% increase in downloads throughout 2020, and its biggest ever increase in users under 25. Although they might not be looking to get married straight away, Gen Z singles are turning to the platform for a more focused dating experience than they might find on other leading services.

The New York-based founder also thinks that virtual dates will continue into the future, even after they’re no longer a necessity.

However, instead of spending hours and hours on video calls, he expects a ten minute chat should suffice so matches can determine how compatible they are and if it’s worth taking the time to meet in person.

McLeod was also profiled by GQ over the weekend, where he shared some of his best bits of advice for running a successful business. This included having a strong work-life balance, being open with employees and having regular, structured company-wide meetings.