Galileo Assists Home-Based Travel Agents
Galileo International has announced partnerships with Global Travel International (GTI) and eTravCo. Both companies are utilizing Galileo Web Services to develop online booking engines for their home-based clientele.
Home-based travel agents is a trend that is experiencing significant growth in today’s market. According to a recent survey by Credit Suisse First Boston, the percentage of qualified home-based agents in the U.S. is expected to grow 10-15 percent by the end of the decade.
“Twelve years ago we recognized the impact home-based agents would have on the travel industry,” said Michael Gross, president and CEO, Global Travel International. “As the pioneer of the home-based agent, we also understand the importance of providing the best solutions and technology to our sales force. With Galileo’s advanced technology platform and online capabilities, our new booking engine is extremely competitive resulting in significant increased sales for our agents.”
“Since the onset of our relationship with Galileo four years ago, we have been extremely impressed with the ongoing improvements and advancements in all of their technologies,” said Bill Alcorn, senior vice president, Technology, eTravCo. “We are confident that our decision to utilize Galileo Web Services for our home-based clients will help grow their local customer base and increase profits, which is our main priority for them.”
Galileo’s industry-leading Web Services enables Internet-based connections between travel agent applications and the Galileo GDS. Created to improve efficiency and reduce costs for clients, Galileo Web Services facilitate the creation of custom applications to support business operations and integrate back office systems so clients can focus more on customer service and selling travel.
“Being asked to provide our Web Services to GTI and eTravCo for their new online booking engines is a testament to our dedication to the travel agency community,” said Mike Ihle, vice president, Product Management, Galileo, Americas. “Whether working from a home office or in a traditional agency, we are committed to the agency channel and providing the leading products and solutions that are necessary to ensure success. Driving incremental revenue and helping agencies succeed through partnership is at the very core of our business acumen.”
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