Travel Weekly Group Ltd - 10 Minutes News for Hoteliers - Page 109

2 min

Study reveals hidden cost of rate disparity…

🏨 Hotels allowing OTAs to undercut their rates pay 47% more for PPC leads, with CPC at $0.97 when undercut versus $0.66 when offering the lowest rate themselves, as per SHR's analysis of 27 million impressions. Rate parity still costs hotels 35.9% more at $0.89 per click. These costs affect marketing budgets and profitability, urging a balanced strategy for direct bookings and OTA partnerships. The hospitality industry expects more direct bookings than OTA bookings by 2030, stressing the importance of direct channels. Steve Collins, VP of SHR, emphasizes the need for a holistic digital strategy.

1 min

intuitive shares buyer’s guide for…

🏡 Intuitive released a comprehensive buyers’ guide to aid travel companies in selecting new reservation systems. The guide includes a step-by-step process, an RFP template, and advice on aligning technology with long-term goals. It addresses internal alignment, contract negotiation, and what to look for in a provider, such as culture and delivery capabilities. Andy Keeley, commercial director at Intuitive, highlights the guide's role in helping companies make informed decisions every 10-15 years.

2 min

Komodo launches travel marketing platform…

🌍 Komodo, a social media and influencer marketing agency, launched The Journey, a marketing platform for the travel sector, partnered with TikTok, Revolut, and Samsonite. Targeting Australia and New Zealand, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) Oceania's campaign starts in February. Six Australian content creators, with a collective following of over 34 million, will compete in gamified TikTok challenges to promote Singapore as a leading destination. The initiative aims to drive visitor numbers by showcasing unique stories through interactive influencer content.

3 min

Data reveals Benidorm and Turin lead…

🌎 Benidorm named European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism and Turin awarded European Capital of Smart Tourism for 2025 by the European Commission. Benidorm became the first Certified Smart Tourism Destination in 2015 under UN Standard 178501, achieved a Seasonality Balance Index of 84.6, a Tourist Product Balance Index of 64.7, a 59% increase in active tourism demand, and extended average stays to 6.2 days. The city's Climate Change Strategic Plan (PACC), launched in 2021, is 40% implemented, with a positive Climate Perception Index of 90.2 (+7% over five years). Turin's transformation into a cultural destination is underscored by a Sentiment Score of 89/100, with flagship events in 2024 generating over €32 million. Its Destination Sustainability Index (DSI) score is 70/100, and an Overtourism Pillar score of 81/100 indicates effective visitor management.

3 min

Guest Post: The busiest time for bookings:…

💳 January is the busiest month for travel businesses with high online holiday search and booking numbers. The UK travel and tourism industry, highly competitive, necessitates distinct experiences and streamlined payment processes. Payment Service Providers (PSPs) facilitate diverse payment options, such as Buy Now, Pay Later, Open Banking, and tokenization, enhancing transaction efficiency and security. Pay by link with 3D Secure 2 protocols is gaining popularity for its convenience and added security. UK Finance reported over £551 million in losses to payment fraud in 2023, with spikes during peak periods. Improved payment security and transparency build customer trust. Efficient payment systems boost operational efficiency, allowing travel businesses to handle more bookings and maintain service quality during high demand. Missed payment system enhancements can lead to lost revenue opportunities. Partnerships with PSPs can provide strategic advice and tailored services, crucial for managing fraud risks and high-volume transactions.

2 min

Business travel and rail on the rise among…

📊 UK SMBs anticipate increasing domestic travel volumes (76%) and business travel budgets (79%) in 2025. Business travel grew by 74% in 2024 compared to 2023. A third (33%) of decision-makers aim to use more rail to cut carbon footprints. An impressive 87% now have emission reduction targets, up from 52% in January 2024, and 85% support lower-carbon travel financially. Regulatory influences are driving 34% of SMBs' lower carbon policies. Andrew Cruttenden of Trainline Partner Solutions underscores the value of tech solutions for sustainable rail travel growth.

2 min

Data intelligence firm Mabrian launches Gen…

📡 Mabrian launched AILA (Artificial Intelligence Live Assistant), a Generative AI-based virtual analyst for optimizing tourism planning and management. AILA, a B2B Gen AI tool, uses Mabrian's travel intelligence database in real-time responses to tourism trends. It integrates with seven data modules: Air Capacity, Traveller Behaviour, Accommodation, Spending, Telecommunications, Mobile Data, and Sustainability. AILA provides personalized insights through natural language interaction in any language. The tool will evolve into an advanced agent for predictive analysis and action plans. AILA will debut at FITUR 2025, aligning with Mabrian's vision to enhance decision-making in tourism with advanced analytics capabilities.

2 min

One in 10 travellers are victims of payment…

🛏 One in 10 hotel guests have experienced payment fraud, with an average loss of £564.08 per victim in 2024. Adyen's Hospitality Report indicates 71% of travelers fear booking scams, and nearly half of hotels (47%) still offer phone payments. Despite only 11% of guests preferring this method, 51% of business leaders consider it popular. Over a third (38%) of businesses reported increased fraud in 2024, with average losses reaching £845,111.06. Safer payment options at check-in (43%) and direct online booking (36%) are preferred by travelers.

2 min

Inspiretec partners with cruise tech firm…

🚢 Inspiretec partners with Swedish Dreamlake to enhance cruise booking for tour operators and retail travel platforms. The collaboration offers a complete cruise solution, including search, pricing, and booking across B2B, B2C, and retail. Inspiretec's CRM will also be available to Dreamlake customers. Launch is set for this Spring with an unnamed customer for online, retail, and trade channels. The integration addresses the cruise market's rapid growth and outdated booking solutions, aiming to give businesses a competitive edge.

1 min

Ecosy Travel Ltd becomes a Certified B…

🗺 Ecosy Travel Ltd, a sustainable travel tech startup, has been awarded B Corporation certification for its commitment to reducing the climate impact of travel and tourism through software innovation. The company, which fosters a community of eco-conscious accommodation providers, recently launched Sustainable Travel Technologies to accelerate carbon reduction in the sector. B Lab UK's executive director, Chris Turner, and Ecosy's CEO, Rebecca Thompson, both underline the significance of Ecosy's certification in driving positive change and sustainable tourism practices.

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