"Industry first" improves message time and stability
Travelport GDS has announced a new direct link between its global distribution services and the Accor hotel group.
Travelport, which operates both the Galileo and Worldspan GDS platforms, said the XML link was an "industry first."
Accor should be able to reduce its distribution costs by removing third party fees with a single link to both GDSs, said Travelport.
Travelport GDS-connected travel agents will also benefit from "significant improvements in response times and a more efficient purchasing experience."
‘'This single direct connection to both of our GDS systems marks a significant industry milestone in terms of providing a more efficient connection between Travelport and hotel suppliers," said Flo Lugli, svp commercial for Travelport GDS.
"This industry first will greatly improve the ability for hoteliers to distribute their content via the GDS and should also result in significant reductions in the cost of distribution."
Ms Lugli said tests had revealed a faster message response time and improved stability.
Travelport plans to implement the new XML direct connection with other leading hospitality organisations later in the year.
Accor, whose brands include Sofitel, Mercure and Ibis, has recently upgraded its connectivity to "Seamless Next Generation" giving agents the ability to view real-time rates and availability direct from Accor's own reservation system.
www.travelport.com www.accor.com