New research into distribution channels and costs will be unveiled at the ACTE Forum in Stockholm next month.
The research paper, The Future of Distribution by Cranfield University in the UK, looks at how distribution channels are likely to evolve in the light of the probable de-regulation of the GDSs and the rise of the online TMCs.
It also considers the costs of distribution through different channels.
Discussion of the Cranfield findings will take up two of the Forum's five sessions.
The other three are on Building a successful procurement strategy, How does outsourcing and procurement affect the travel industry and Meetings management.
Among the speakers and panellists are Sven-Anders Stegare, head of procurement at SEB, Cathrine Lundberg of CMM Consulting, Lambros Andreasson of Travelogica and Hans Holmen managing director of BTI Nordic.
The event, to be held on April 5 at the Radisson SAS Royal Viking Hotel, is co-organised by the Swedish Business Travel Association and the Swedish procurement association, SILF.
Airlines increase fuel surcharges
BA and Virgin Atlantic both announced increases in their fuel surcharges on long haul flights from £10 to £16 a flight and to £32 for a return flight.
BA is also raising its surcharge on short haul flights from £4 to £6 a flight with a return at £12.
The BA charges come into force on March 28.
Mr Martin George, BA's commercial director, said the airline's fuel bill for next year was expected to rise by £300m and the surcharge was “regrettably unavoidable.”