US: Oakwood has announced a strategic partnership with TravelClick to boost its reservation platform.
Oakwood says the move places it “at the forefront of online booking capability, enabling seamless integration with mainstream travel and online booking platforms as well as travel management platforms”.
The revamped platform will allow consumers and business travellers to book immediately online, which Oakwoodcalls a major shift in preferences in a rapidly-changing industry.
“The new, strategic partnership between Oakwood and TravelClick is truly significant in its potential to transform access and availability to furnished and serviced apartments and is an important next step in our long-term technology initiative,” said Chris Ahearn, chief executive officer at Oakwood. “Our customers have asked for more streamlined solutions with fewer points of contact, real-time booking, and more transparency in pricing. Our new global reservation system will achieve those goals by providing a single, integrated system for pricing, and inventory globally.”
“TravelClick has a long record of excellence in developing innovative technology solutions for hotels, and by integrating these tools with Oakwood’s robust booking platforms, we’re able to provide an even better and more personalised service for guests. We’re delighted to take this great step forward and look forward to more exciting updates in 2019,” added Ahearn.
For TravelClick, part of the Amadeus group, the agreement marks its entry into the furnished and serviced apartment sector. Its proprietary iHotelier Booking Engine 4.0 provides a centralised e-commerce platform that enables Oakwood to guide guests through the booking process with interactive message displays, and targeted merchandising and add-on services. In addition, TravelClick’s mobile-friendly experience will integrate into Oakwood’s recently-launched mobile app, making it easier than ever for guests to manage their travel accommodations.
“By moving to the next generation of booking engines, Oakwood is able to continually adapt to changing market conditions and maximise its revenues,” said Jeff Stuek, president, North America, at TravelClick. “We are honoured to work with such a forward-thinking company that is innovating on the furnished and serviced apartment model to provide a personalised experience for today’s most demanding guests.”
Oakwood is a sponsor for a wide range of IHM serviced apartment events, including Serviced Apartment Summit RECHARGE 2019 (Berlin, Germany); Serviced Apartment Summit Asia 2019 (Bangkok, Thailand – headline sponsor); Serviced Apartment Awards 2019 (London, UK), Serviced Apartment Summit Americas 2019 (NYC, US) and Serviced Apartment Summit Europe 2019 (London, UK).</p
