Expedia report claims big tech investment and growth in room nights

The Expedia group’s full year earnings report shows investment of more than USD 686m (GBP 451m) in technology and content in 2014.

The Expedia group’s full year earnings report shows investment of more than USD 686m (GBP 451m) in technology and content in 2014.

Part of the investment developed products to help consumers research and book travel across a combination of devices.

The company’s full year earnings report also showed a 26% growth in room nights, with domestic room nights increasing 23%. Although international room nights increased by 28% year-on-year, it was less than the growth in 2013 (32%).

Despite the growth in room nights, revenue per room night decreased by 6%. The report explains this decrease as the consequence of efforts to expand the size and availability of the global hotel supply portfolio, as well as promotional activities such as growing loyalty programs.

The decline was partially offset by a 2% increase in average daily rates for the year.

Isabelle Pinson, senior director of market management for Northern Europe, said: “The Expedia group conducts significant research into traveller booking behaviour as well as identifying what our partners need from our technology. This ensures the business invests in the right technology to direct customers to our hotel partners quickly and easily, generating increased demand for the hotels we work with.”

She continued: “In addition to the standout technology launches, we’re constantly making changes to our platforms so the experience is better for travellers and for our partners each time they engage with us.”