InnLink Enhances Customer Connectivity
FEBRUARY 25, 2008. InnLink, LLC announced today the successful implementation of an initiative to develop a powerful combination of connectivity enhancements for their customers. The first element of the InnLink Connectivity Initiative is to enhance connection with Travel Websites and the GDS. The second element of the InnLink Connectivity Initiative is to increase PMS connections with InnLink CRS.
Significant results have already been achieved in both areas. In January, InnLink connected directly to Expedia's Special Rate program establishing a powerful connection to directly handle contracted net rates. InnLink also has established a Next Gen Seamless connection with SABRE. These connections will benefit customers by simplifying their inventory management.
InnLink is the first US Central Reservation Service to complete a direct connection with Expedia. An electronic exchange is established between the property, Expedia and InnLink including rates, inventory, and booking details. There will be no manual updates required on Expedia's Extranet to get access to Expedia's global network of travel brands. Fees are simplified and significantly reduced; each reservation will receive only one Merchant Transaction Fee rather than a GDS fee and a CRS Reservation Fee.
The Next Gen Seamless connection with SABRE ensures consumers and travel agents get the most current and accurate data whenever they run a SABRE inquiry. A city or location search pulls rates and availability directly from InnLink CRS ensuring the latest rates and availability are displayed. There is no need to maintain availability externally and no lagtime for new rates or availability to be displayed to the consumer.
The second element of the connectivity initiative is also delivering value for our customers. InnLink recently completed an enhanced Micros Opera two-way interface and an InnQuest roomMaster 2000 enhanced interface. An enhanced or two-way interface simplifies inventory management for a hotel and allows them to open more availability. The implementation of the interfaces has already significantly improved revenue for properties involved. Some customers have doubled their CRS revenue as a result of a two-way interface.
"We are excited to launch these connectivity enhancements for our customers benefit and expect to have more enhancements in the coming months. This initiative gives InnLink customers a powerful combination of opportunities to drive revenue for their property," stated Per Wendin, CEO. "Future results will be announced as we establish more direct connections with our channels and expand the interfaces available with PMS partners."
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
