Google, TripAdvisor redefine roles in distribution | hotelnewsnow.com
Although the most recent changes to the distribution landscape might not directly affect day-to-day operations today, experts say hoteliers should pay close attention as major players in the space are making moves that could shape the future. Two announcements Friday—Expedia spinning off TripAdvisor and Google receiving permission to purchase ITA Software—are steps toward a very different distribution model than hoteliers use today. TripAdvisor could become more “hotel-friendly,” and hoteliers could be enticed to spend additional money there, said Max Starkov, chief e-business strategist at Hospitality eBusiness Strategies. And moves by Google point to an increased role in aggregating travel search options for consumers, which could increase Google’s potential as a distribution channel.
