NEW YORK, Nov. 6, Today at 3pm at the ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) World Congress in New York City, Juergen Bartels, chief executive of Le Meridien, will unveil "Le Guest Book," a dramatic upgrade of its commission program to travel agents.

From January 1, 2002, every travel agent (pre-registered) worldwide will earn 2% commission on all valid bookings. Additionally, agencies where registered agents work, will receive an extra 2% commission on bookings made – increasing the total agency commission to 12%.

"The world-wide agent community is at the very heart of our business, and we are committed to doing whatever it takes to help each and every one of them to jump-start bookings in our 144 hotels across the globe," said Bartels. "As many countries continue to feel the effects of a travel slow-down, it is our responsibility to demonstrate our full financial support to our travel agents, some of whom are facing an increasingly uncertain future," added Bartels.

Unlike any other agent incentive program in the world, Le Guest Book offers agents a cash payment (rather than gifts or prizes) on fulfilled bookings. Payment is via a personalized electronic payment card, which can be used for shopping or cash (at ATMs).

"ASTA is thrilled to see a hotel company recognize the value of working in partnership with travel agents in such a meaningful way. We have always encouraged suppliers to incentivize agents to book their product, and this program does just that," said Richard M. Copland, CTC, ASTA president and CEO. "In these challenging times, suppliers will need travel agents more than ever and consumers will increasingly turn to travel agents for advice and counsel on travelling, particularly to international destinations."

"I encourage all travel agents to sign up for this commission program. Le Meridien is an excellent hotel company and this program is a win-win for all involved," said Copland.

Le Guest Book starts on January 1, 2002 and is open to every agent who pre-registers online at www.lemeridien.com (registration is now officially open). Interested agents can obtain information online at or via a Le Guest Book link on Le Meridien's Web site.

The agent commission program from Le Meridien forms part of the group's new strategy to boldly invest to grow its business. Following the appointment of Juergen Bartels as Chief Executive this summer, Le Meridien announced a $1.3 billion global investment designed to dramatically upgrade its facilities and catapult the brand to the top of hotel industry rankings in three years. Le Meridien has 144 hotels in 57 countries. In the Americas, Le Meridien properties are located in Toronto, Boston, New York, Chicago, New Orleans, Dallas, Beverly Hills, Cancun, Guadeloupe (2), Guyana, Jamaica, Martinique, St. Martin (2), Rio de Janeiro, Tahiti and Bora Bora

Samantha Oehl
Media Contact
212-868-1900 x233
Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts