antitrust approval to create a joint venture concentrating on non-air
items.
The rival Global Distribution System companies said the initiative
would provide "secure, automated payment processing, clearing and
reconciliation solutions" to the global travel industry.
"The intent of the joint venture is to establish an industry standard
solution to improve and better meet the requirements of the travel
industry with payment efficiencies, increased automation, and improved
interoperability," a statement said.
"The joint venture plans to focus on the non-air segments of the
industry such as hotels, cruise, tour, car and rail.
"The joint venture will integrate the existing financial instruments
already used by the travel industry into a best-in-class
multi-channel, multi-GDS platform, which will allow travel industry
players to effectively manage all aspects of their payment needs in a
flexible, easy-to-use solution."
No further details were given, with both companies saying more
information on the joint venture solution will be available upon
approval, but no timetable was indicated.
The move comes as competitor GDSs Galileo and Worldspan conclude
merger arrangements.
Categories: Travel Technology, Travel Agent, Hotel & Resort, Tour
Operator, Airline, Business Travel
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