Whiplash accelerates plans to offer Internet-based distribution and reservations solutions to leisure travel suppliers worldwide
Whiplash, Inc. (www.whiplashnow.com), an Internet-based, leisure travel distribution company, today announced it has acquired EasyRes Technologies (www.easyrestech.com), a privately-held leisure tour technology solutions provider based in Baltimore, Maryland. The transaction advances Whiplash’s plans to deploy the first Internet system that connects travel agencies and their customers directly to leisure travel tour companies for real time, online shopping and booking. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Founded in 1994 by Rick Holofcener, an eighteen-year veteran of the leisure tour industry, EasyRes developed a PC-based tour reservation system and marketed it successfully to small- and medium-sized leisure travel suppliers. EasyRes has completely reengineered its system for the Internet, utilizing an application service provider (ASP) architecture. The new browser-based product is currently in beta test with seven tour operators, and is slated for general release this summer. Utilizing this technology, Whiplash will be able to offer leisure tour companies a turnkey, low-cost, front-and back-office reservation system and Internet booking engine.
“EasyRes has an established customer base, an impeccable reputation for delivering effective technology, and a team of outstanding travel technology professionals,” said Lynne Rosenbaum, president and chief operating officer for Whiplash. “Integration of the EasyRes tour reservations system with the Whiplash distribution platform gives tour operators an integrated, affordable end-to-end solution with which to manage their business and distribute their products across multiple channels, leveling the playing field for small- and medium-sized leisure travel operators.”
“We are very excited to join the Whiplash team and together help shape the future of the leisure travel industry,” said Rick Holofcener. “Among the companies with which we considered teaming, Whiplash was the only one with obvious synergies in business model, product direction, and culture. By combining forces, we will be the first to provide the leisure travel industry with a complete reservation and distribution solution through the Internet.”
EasyRes will maintain its location in Maryland under the Whiplash name. Rick Holofcener will continue to oversee product development and operations at the new Whiplash site, serving as president of Whiplash’s Reservation Services Division and reporting to Rosenbaum.
About Whiplash, Inc.

Whiplash offers the leisure travel industry a comprehensive suite of Internet technology solutions that will enable travel agencies and their customers to shop and book a large selection of leisure and experiential travel services in real time. Based in Lisle, IL, Whiplash is privately held. More information may be obtained by calling 630-799-7700 or through the website at www.whiplashnow.com.
——-