Expedia reveals $275 million plan to boost travel suppliers

The company said the recovery package aimed to “accelerate recovery for hoteliers, destinations and the wider travel industry”.

Expedia added the package included a range of initiatives designed to help independent suppliers and small hotel chains to “rebuild their business, attract high-value guests and optimise cash flow”.

Cyril Ranque, president of the Travel Partners Group at Expedia Group, explained: “There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ plan for recovery. Restoring travel will take an unprecedented level of partnership across public and private sectors, and a deep understanding of what our partners need.

“This recovery programme is the first step in our long journey to rebuild a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable global travel ecosystem.”

The package includes Expedia offering $250 million in “marketing credits and financial relief” to hotels, with the online travel agency promising to convert 25% of its 2019 earnings from each property into marketing credits.

Expedia said it would also reduce its “compensation” on all new bookings within the three-month programme period “regardless of the actual stay dates”.

Other moves include a $25 million fund from Expedia Group Media Solutions, the group’s adverising arm, to help destinations pay for marketing campaigns.

Expedia is also rolling out a series of global brand campaigns, including its current online Where Next? marketing promotion.

While a new feature on Expedia’s platforms allows accommodation providers to highlight their health and hygiene measures.

To help travel industry workers who are currently furloughed, Expedia has also created a free training and education programme, called Expedia Group Academy.