Single XML Direct Connection Implemented between Accor and Travelport’s GDS Platforms

Travelport GDS is working with global hotel giant Accor, to implement a single OTA (Open Travel Alliance) – compliant XML direct connection to both of Travelport’s GDS platforms. The move is aimed at improving efficiencies for both companies and enabling a more streamlined approach for future product enhancements.

Significantly for Accor, the hotel company will be in a position to reduce its distribution costs by removing intermediary switch company fees, and realise ongoing savings as a result of only supporting a single connection to both GDS platforms. Travelport GDS-connected travel agents will also benefit from significant improvements in response times and a more efficient purchasing experience.

Accor Hotels has also just upgraded their connectivity on both Galileo and Worldspan to “Seamless Next Generation”. Through this upgraded connectivity, agents will now have the ability to see real-time rates and availability for all hotels coming from Accor’s own central reservation system, right from the initial hotel search request. This means agents are able to provide the most accurate information to their clients, save time with shopping Accor’s inventory and have the greatest confidence when quoting rates and availability. Over 90% of Travelport GDS’s hotel suppliers now participate at this highest level of connectivity.

“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. 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,” said Flo Lugli, Senior VP Commercial for Travelport GDS.

“Tests, which were carried out during the implementation phase, indicated a faster message response time and improved stability of the network connection between both parties,” he added.

Travelport plans to implement the new XML direct connection with a number of other leading hospitality organisations later in the year. The initiative forms a key part of the GDS provider’s long term hospitality strategy and its ongoing commitment to enhance the booking process for both hoteliers and travel agents.

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