Marriott signs up to use TripAdvisor’s Instant Booking service

Marriott signs up to use TripAdvisor’s Instant Booking service

TripAdvisor users in the US will be able to book more than 4,200 Marriott hotels via the travel review site’s instant booking platform from this summer.

TripAdvisor users in the US will be able to book more than 4,200 Marriott hotels via the travel review site’s instant booking platform from this summer.

A new strategic partnership between Marriott and TripAdvisor aims to introduce new customers to the hotel group’s 19 brands.

TripAdvisor launched the instant booking platform in the US a year ago, with a gradual roll out to other international markets expected over time.

Users click on the ‘Book on TripAdvisor’ button to initiate a reservation.

TripAdvisor reminds consumers throughout the process that their booking is powered by Marriott and provides travellers with links and phone numbers to contact the hotel’s customer service associates directly.

All customer support inquiries will be handled by Marriott representatives, unlike with other intermediaries.

Arne Sorenson, president and chief executive of Marriott International, said: “TripAdvisor is a perfect partner for Marriott, both strategically and culturally.

“Our new agreement demonstrates how the growth strategies for our two companies are aligned in the travel space.”

The chain’s channel strategy and distribution senior vice president, Shafiq Khan, said: “TripAdvisor has created a new distribution model that changes the game in the travel industry by addressing key concerns of hotel suppliers.

“The result is mutually beneficial to both partners from a strategic and economic standpoint. Marriott’s partnership with TripAdvisor will make it easy for consumers to book with our hotels, and allows Marriott to build a direct relationship with these guests even before arrival.

“The agreement also maintains our ability to control where the rates and inventory for Marriott’s hotels are displayed.

“Our partnership will continue to enable us to offer the best benefits, such as Marriott Rewards and Ritz-Carlton Rewards points to our customers who choose to book directly on our channels, including Marriott.com.”

TripAdvisor’s president and chief executive, Stephen Kaufer, said: “We are excited to deepen our strategic partnership with Marriott International, an innovative hospitality leader.

“We welcome Marriott to the instant booking platform, which provides travelers with a new, simplified booking functionality and an opportunity for Marriott to expand its relationship with guests before, during and after the trip.”