Expedia launches affiliate programme in New Zealand

AUCKLAND – Expedia has launched its Travel Agent Affiliate Programme (TAAP) in New Zealand.

New Zealand agents can gain direct access to Expedia’s global inventory and earn commission on bookings for flights, hotels, tailor-made packages, car rental and activities.

Already operating in Australia, other markets across Asia Pacific will be launched later this year.

Agents who sign up to the scheme will get access to a password protected channel where they can book and earn commission on Expedia content.

“Travel Agents love this programme because they can earn revenue selling highly competitive rates and inventory otherwise not available to the retail trade,” said Stuart Udy, manager of travel agent distribution APAC at Expedia.

“Agents find it ever increasingly difficult to satisfy an Internet savvy customer with access to great Internet rates and availability. Up until now, much of that business was walking out the door.”

Udy said the Travel Agent Affiliate Programme has been adopted successfully in other markets with over 6000 members enlisted.

“We understand that many consumers prefer to book through traditional travel agents and that travel agents have not had access to many of the products at rate structures Expedia is able to offer.

“TAAP provides the perfect way for us to partner with travel agent’s and provide highly competitive services to agency customers.”

Prices and products shown on the agency’s booking will be identical to those shown on the consumer site allowing the agent to compete directly with an online price and still earn a commission.

Once the agent is registered, commission is earned on processed bookings regardless of whether the consumer credit card is used or the agencies card is used to process the transaction.

To become a member of the program, travel agents will register online at Expedia.co.nz.

Expedia is waiving the one-time membership fee for all agents who sign up by April 30, 2010.

Agents who sign up before the end of March will have a chance to earn an enhanced commission on bookings made until June 30, 2010.

Agents who join the program after May 1, 2010, will be subject to a one-time membership fee of $100.

Expedia’s Travel Agent Affiliate Programme was first launched in Italy in 2002 and has since expanded to the UK, France, Germany, Canada and now Asia Pacific.

For more information, go to www.expediaaccess.com/nz