Kuoni to switch off viewdata?
Long-haul specialist Kuoni could switch off viewdata as early as Christmas, according to a senior manager.
The operator’s head of e-business and database development Matt Rooke said the company was close to switching the outdated technology off and was contacting agents to inform them.
Rooke said: “We’re suggesting we will switch it off towards the end of the year. It’s not a take it or leave it situation for agents but more that we have something much better for them to use.”
Travel agent usage of the Kuoni website has increased massively for the operator with the trade accounting for 60% of visitors compared to about 5% three-and-a-half years ago.
Rooke highlighted the benefits of using the site such as electronic brochures and the availability of pictures and detailed destination information, not available on viewdata.
Other operators, including Virgin Holidays, have revealed initiatives to help move away from viewdata recently.
Technology experts are divided over whether the trade is ready for viewdata to be switched off however.
Russell Parr, group sales manager for the Vertical Group said: “Most online booking systems find it difficult to offer the breadth of data and options available in viewdata.”
And BlueSky Travel Systems managing director Steve Driscoll adds: “Until one of the larger operators commits to shutting it down it will remain alive and kicking as a major distribution channel.”
Rooke also said that Kuoni Wizard, the operator’s online dynamic packaging tool launched in January, was perfect for agents.
“We’re seeing consumers are more likely to use it eventhough we have a great number of agents booking on our website.”
Rooke added that the average online spend using Wizard £5,0700 compared to £2,700 using the normal online process.
Kuoni plans to expand the destinations available to book on Wizard and is considering South Africa and Far East as potential additions.
The operator also plans to relaunch its website at the end of the year.
Report by Linda Fox
Phil Davies
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