ShortBreaks looks to trade for bookings

ShortBreaks Ltd is launching a commission-paying website for agents in a bid to boost bookings through the trade. Agents using the website (www.shortbreaks4agents.com) will be able to combine hotel bookings with Eurostar train bookings and earn 10% commission. The operator is using XML technology provided by TravelOptions to upload live availability from the Eurostar website. The site is launching in the coming months. ShortBreaks already uses the TravelOptions technology to get live Eurostar product for its consumer website. ShortBreaks general manager Vid Veerapen said: “Dynamic packaging is going to power further growth in the market and give agents a new-found competitive advantage.” TravelOptions managing director, Michael Johnson told TravelMole: “ShortBreaks were using allocations of Eurostar product to set up special offers which have set train times, but this was a bit restrictive. Our technology offers more flexibility.” Mr Johnson also told TravelMole that TravelOptions’ XML technology is being used by thetrainline.com to provide a live link to Eurostar from its short breaks website, www.seeyoumonday.com.