The travel industry follows its own rules, something that many startups and established companies new to this sector discover. Despite this, the level of interest shown by investors and startups is high. This is the audience that Travel Traction by OpenTravel, supported by the world’s leading travel trade show, will be addressing on the eve of ITB Berlin. In addition to providing a networking opportunity the event will be hosting lectures and discussions, with experts offering their in-depth knowledge. The event takes place on 5 March 2013, from 1 to 6 p.m., in Room 8 of the ICC on the exhibition grounds.

“The rules of the tourism industry pose huge challenges to newcomers to this sector“, says Dr. Martin Buck, director of the Competence Center Travel & Logistics, Messe Berlin GmbH. “At the same time, these companies contribute significantly to moving this industry forward. For us as the leading international travel trade show it is all the more important that we support this event.”

Among those speaking will be Douglas Quinby, Senior Director of Research, PhoCusWright, who will look at a new survey entitled „Travel Innovation – The State of Start-Ups 2010-2013.“ Kevin May, editor of the trade publication Tnooz, and ValynPerini, CEO OpenTravel, will also be taking part in the discussion. Corporate strategists and investors will be providing in-depth knowledge and relating their experiences in the travel industry.

The event comprises three tracks: one of these focuses on different types of business models, such as the distribution of an existing product – via a metasearch site such as Trivago – or the creation of one’s own portfolio, for example in the case of Hostelworld or AirBnB.

Another topic is technology. For industry newcomers connectivity and compatibility often represent huge obstacles in terms of programming. The panel of experts will also dwell on the topics of procurement, sales and choosing service providers, such as airlines, cruise operators and hotels.