Radisson Edwardian signs deal with 4oceans

Electronic distribution specialist 4oceans has signed an agreement with luxury hotel group Radisson Edwardian, to provide its ResConnect distribution service to the group's London and Heathrow properties.

The deal paves the way for Radisson Edwardian to take advantage of increasing business from China and Global emerging markets, creating a strong new revenue stream for the group's range of upmarket properties.

4oceans' ResConnect service enables each Radisson Edwardian hotel to market specific promotional offers, rates and product information to thousands of agents around the world who operate through the 4oceans platform, including over 3,000 agents in the fast growing Chinese market.

The number of Chinese outbound tourists and business travellers has dramatically increased in recent years - topping more than 15.5 million trips in 2002. As a result, the ability for Chinese travel agents to access global hotel inventory for their clients is key, with 4oceans now recognised as one of the largest electronic distribution channels in China.

Sunil Mehra, General Manager of Business Relationships at Radisson Edwardian, said: "The agreement with 4oceans paves the way for us to build business from new growth markets, bringing new revenue streams for our properties and enhanced awareness for our brand as a leading London hotel group. 

"This is a significant development in our business strategy, underlining the appeal our properties have to the emerging markets through a combination of quality, tradition and superb locations, while allowing us to work with China's travel agents to create new business opportunities."

Radisson Edwardian is one of London's largest privately owned four and five-star hotel groups, comprising ten hotels, all in key locations - in Central London, one near Heathrow Airport and another new hotel in Manchester. Founded in 1977 by Jasminder Singh, the company is also a partner of the Carlson Group, one of the world's largest leisure and travel businesses.

Juliette Newth, Hotel Relations Manager at 4oceans, said: "A growing number of hotel groups are recognising the importance of targeting new, emerging markets to help ensure their long term success in the changing tourism climate. 

"By working with our ResConnect service, each of the Radisson Edwardian properties will be able to promote rates and offers to thousands of agents around the world, helping to build awareness for the brand and giving them a competitive edge in the London hotel market."