Global Distribution Systems (GDS) will still have their place despite the rise of direct connect and other distribution methods, a Business Travel Show seminar heard.
A panel discussion on distribution concluded that methods which provided accurate fare comparisons and the ability to cost ancillaries would prevail despite the growth of direct channels.
Nick Reynolds, HRG’s head of commercial and service delivery said: “We have done direct connects but we have very strong relationships with the primary GDSs and that is not going to change.”
He added: “From our point of view, GDS sits alongside direct connect,” and urged: “Do what is right for your travel programme, direct connect suits some but not others.”
Easyjet’s distribution development manager Jerry Dunn said the carrier, which uses GDS and internet distribution, was aware of the value that the traditional method brought to business travellers. GDSs accounted for 60% of legacy airline ticket sales, he said, adding: “To cut that out is very dangerous.”
Sabre’s EMEA commercial director, airline distribution, Hamish Broom, said GDSs were learning to adapt to new demands, including unbundling by airlines and the inclusion of new products such as boutique hotels.
“With the new technology we have we are attracting more of them into the system,” he said.
Broom said more airlines were due to follow Air New Zealand’s adoption of IATA’s Electronic Miscellaneous Document standard that allows ancillary sales to be costed but warned that getting the industry to adapt as a whole would be a long process.