TRUST International, a member of the international media corporation Bertelsmann Group and a global provider of reservations technology for the hospitality industry, announced a 10.39% increase in electronic bookings by the “4 and 5 star” hotel segment for the month of April 2002 compared to April 2001.
Although the luxury hotel segment has suffered the worst financial setbacks in the lodging industry, the company forecasts the luxury hotel market rebounding quicker than expected, even outperforming last year`s numbers.

Industry statistics indicate that the luxury hotel market in the U.S. has suffered double-digit losses in room revenues and has failed to recoup even as the overall industry is showing signs of economic improvement.

“2001 was a difficult year for the hospitality industry and with that in mind, it is very encouraging to see a rebound in GDS bookings for our upscale/luxury market,” commented Connie Rheams, president of TRUST International, Americas. “I foresee strong growth throughout 2002 as GDS continues to be a vital distribution channel for hotels worldwide.”

Supporting Connie`s expectations for continued growth is the positive results from HEDNA`s (Hotel Electronic Distribution Network Association) annual survey, Global Distribution System Hotel Reservations, which reports that despite the challenges of 2001, GDS delivered 46,753,000 net reservations for hotels - an increase compared with 1999 levels (43,781,000) but still a 4.2% decline from 2000 levels (48,787,000).

 

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