Hilton International has forged a distribution agreement with travel search engine firm SideStep.
SideStep will be the first travel search engine with permission to search Hilton International’s website for rates and availability.
The deal will enable SideStep’s 4.7 million monthly users to get real-time information on availability and best prices across the hotel group’s network of more than 400 properties worldwide.
A direct link from the SideStep search engine to Hilton International’s site will be provided as Hilton as expands its international distribution network via strong partnership deals, a statement said.
The pact follows last month’s partnership between SideStep and the Hilton Hotels Corporation – the US business that owns brands such as Hilton, Doubletree, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, and Homewood Suites by Hilton.
Hilton International has introduced advanced new functionality to its website to support the partnership.
In the past, when search engines ‘scanned’ Hilton’s website for information, the activity generated significant levels of traffic which the site was not designed to support. To combat this issue, Hilton International has launched a new availability engine, which will enable SideStep to access relevant room and rate information without physically searching the Hilton website and increasing traffic levels.
The introduction of the availability engine forms part of a wider programme of website improvements, which will enable Hilton International to better serve both direct customers and its online distribution partners, according to the company.
Hilton International’s commercial operations group president Jurgen Fischer said: “We all know that today’s consumers are increasingly relying on the internet to book their own travel arrangements, be it for business or pleasure.
“Travel-specific search engines like SideStep are expanding rapidly as consumers continue to seek the best possible deals. Today, we have joined forces with a leader in the field.”
He added: “Hilton International has made a significant investment in its website and online distribution capabilities. As online travel bookings continue to increase, we are confident that our carefully selected partnerships will enable us to drive growth through this channel.”
Report by Phil Davies
