New portal claims to be first online GDS training resource

Travel veteran Bruce Martin has launched GDS Genie, which claims to be the first online resource solely dedicated to global distribution systems (GDS) training.

Travel veteran Bruce Martin has launched GDS Genie, which claims to be the first online resource solely dedicated to global distribution systems (GDS) training.

The new portal helps agents become proficient in the three main GDS systems – Galileo, Amadeus and Sabre.

Based in north London, the venture has two long-term distribution partners: social media strategy firm Ginger Juice – which was founded by Martin – and the Online Travel Academy.

Both Online Travel Academy and Ginger Juice have a “huge relevant global database”, said Martin, who has more than 25 years of experience in travel, with 10-plus years in the training sector.

He said: “A career in travel is much sought-after and many jobs are advertised asking for GDS experience, but it’s not easy to get official training from GDS companies unless you already work in travel; it’s a Catch-22 situation.

“GDS Genie enables people to learn how to use GDS via a high-quality ‘emulated’ platform.

“Learning a GDS increases the chances of candidates getting job offers and means they can hit the ground running.”

GDS Genie will target people looking to start their travel career as well as experienced agents aiming to improve their skills.

Chris May, managing director of Equator Learning, of which Online Travel Academy is a sub-brand, added: “GDS is a must-have skill in the travel professional’s tool box and regardless of web developments, the GDS is still the go-to booking portal.

“Equator Learning is delighted to work with GDS Genie to distribute this service across all of its Online Travel Academy platforms worldwide, making it available to our half a million travel trade users.”