The travel industry is continuously evolving, and as new market dynamics emerge, the need for accessible and efficient booking systems has never been more pressing. Sabre, a leader in travel technology, has recognized this necessity with the launch of the Sabre Red Launchpad, a user-friendly booking platform tailored specifically for new travel advisors. This platform is now available to all travel agencies, revolutionizing how advisors approach bookings for air travel, hotels, and car rentals.
What sets the Launchpad apart is its streamlined interface that eliminates the requirement for complex GDS codes. Sabre has branded this shopping experience as “consumer-grade,” emphasizing a design philosophy that prioritizes ease of use and speed. Importantly, the platform is an extension of the existing Sabre Red 360, enabling advisors to leverage Sabre’s extensive and diverse travel content without extensive training. According to Kathy Morgan, Senior Vice President of Product Management and Distribution Experience at Sabre, Launchpad facilitates immediate revenue generation for advisors through its intuitive design. The emphasis on quick onboarding is likely to attract numerous new travel agents, enhancing client service from day one.
The development of the Launchpad represents a significant partnership between Sabre and Internova Travel Group, a notable player in the industry. Internova’s engagement since the platform’s early stages indicates a strategic approach to co-create tools that meet the specific needs of travel advisors. The co-branded version, named “Internova SNAP,” has witnessed rapid uptake, with over 300 agencies and thousands of advisors adopting the tool within months of its rollout. This adoption is a clear indicator of market demand for accessible booking solutions that also enhance sales potential.
The collaboration is not just theoretical; it has yielded tangible results in terms of increased sales volume. Internova’s Executive Vice President of Partner Relations, Peter Vlitas, highlighted the necessity for solutions aimed at advisors disengaged from GDS systems. The feedback from early adopters, such as the 1000 Mile Travel Group — which branded its version as 1000Access — points to impressive outcomes. In just six months post-launch, a significant percentage of North American advisors were onboarded, collectively generating substantial revenue in airline commissions.
As the travel industry navigates through a landscape marked by rapid change and unexpected challenges, tools like the Sabre Red Launchpad stand out as crucial resources for travel advisors. By simplifying the booking process and supporting effective client engagement, Sabre has empowered advisors to not just survive but thrive in a competitive environment. The collaborative spirit between Sabre and Internova underscores the importance of innovation in the travel sector, paving the way for enhanced service delivery and increased profitability among advisors. With such advancements, the future of travel advisory services looks promising, marking an exciting chapter in the evolution of travel bookings.
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