Photo courtesy of Thinkstock
The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is applauding Marriott International in wake of the company's recent launch of Marriott Rewards Member Rates designed to encourage travelers to book through direct channels, including approved travel agents.
"The American Society of Travel Agents commends Marriott for offering new rates designed to reward loyalty members who not only book through Marriott channels, but also through 'select corporate accounts and travel agent partners,'" the Alexandria, Virginia-based organization said in a statement issued Thursday.
"ASTA has been vocal about supplier incentives that do not take into account the value travel agencies bring to suppliers and their customers," the group added.
In his own statement, ASTA president and CEO Zane Kerby said "we applaud Marriott for including partner agents in its most recent campaign."
Set to launch next month, Marriott's new program will reward Marriott Rewards members who book through approved direct channels with discounted room rates as well as other exclusive perks.
The announcement came nearly one month after Hilton Worldwide launched its "Stop Clicking Around" campaign aimed at promoting direct booking as well as squashing the misconception that the best hotel deals are found on third-party websites.
ASTA also followed that announcement up with praise for Hilton, applauding the company for its recognition of the agency channel's contributions.
On Thursday, ASTA concluded its statement with a reminder that it recently formed a Hotel Distribution Advisory Committee in an effort to better advocate for agents.
The group said it will continue to rely on the committee to provide important insight.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
