Global distribution systems (GDS) have been a mainstay in the travel industry since travel agents began using them in the 1970s. The technology allows agents to compare rates and amenities on one easy-to-use interface. This connective service links buyers with hotels, airlines, and car rental services in one system, benefiting the travel services, the travel agent, and the end-user.
Having the complete itinerary in one place means easy access to alterations and a no-fuss travel day. Hotels find some of the most attractive benefits of Global Distribution System to be:
Bundled Packages
Hotels can offer bundled packages through a GDS, including hotel stays, air travel, and other components. It allows them to provide better rates to guests, which is an attractive selling point. Bundling travel services in this way makes the booking process more convenient for customers and can lead to increased bookings and revenue for the hotel.
Enhanced Marketing Exposure
Participating in a GDS provides hotels with enhanced marketing exposure without additional costs. The GDS system places the hotel's information, availability, and rates in front of numerous travel agents and clients, helping it reach a wider audience.
Accessing New Market Segments
GDS platforms allow hotels to access and attract new market segments they may have yet to reach. For example, a hotel that typically caters to families can also use a GDS to target the lucrative corporate travel market, as many businesses book travel arrangements through GDS-connected travel agencies.
Real-time Rate and Offer Updates
A key advantage of GDS is the real-time update of product information, such as room rates and special offers. As prices change, hotel managers can easily adjust their rates, and travel agents can immediately see these updates and present the latest opportunities to their clients.
Reduced Operational Burden
GDS systems act as trusted intermediaries, seamlessly relaying information between the hotel and travel agents. This reduces the time and effort hotel staff must spend manually processing reservations and updates, allowing them to focus on other essential tasks.
Hotelogix Hotel Property Management System provides one of the best Global Distribution Systems. Hotels can connect to leading GDSs, including Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, and Worldspan, to get more bookings.
Hotel booking channels or GDSs help hotels access nearly 100,000 portals and more than 600,000 travel agents worldwide. Hotels can centrally connect to these distribution channels to widen their market reach.
This little piece of technology saves time and will lead to greater exposure for your property. All the buzz surrounding GDS is worth looking into. Check out the platforms available and see if one speaks to your property. After all, technology is here to make our lives easier—and what would be more welcome than a helping hand to boost your business?
Read Also: Disadvantages of Global Distribution System (GDS)