http://www.eyefortravel.com/tds2007/conference/agenda.shtml

16:30 - 18:00 Distribution Technology

Track

How better interoperability is changing the distribution landscape

• Bobby Healey, CTO, CarTrawler

• How do the GDSs continue to position themselves in the travel distribution value chain?
• How is the GDS - OTA relationship developing and will it affect you, the travel supplier?
• When deciding how to distribute an innovative business travel product, is there a real alternative to the GDS's?

11.30 - 12.45 KEYNOTE DEBATE

Scale vs Specialisation - how do you get the balance right to future proof your travel organisation and ensure long term success?

2006 again saw dramatic changes in the travel distribution landscape. The end of the year in particular was dominated by high profile buy-outs, mergers and take-overs which could have a profound impact on your travel business. In 2007 this trend has continued with the merger of tour operator giants Thomas Cook and MyTravel. In this session, industry leaders will share their views on what these changes mean for you, and debate how to create the optimal mix of scale and specialisation to drive your business forward.

• What's the recipe for success - is it better to:
  • Go large and generic, thus widening your net of potential customers and benefiting from economies of scale?
  • Go specialist and niche, where the margins are higher and you can focus your efforts more effectively?
• What new developments are expected in the intermediary space and which business models will come out on top?
• Does consolidation necessarily mean commoditisation? Or do the resources available to integrated travel companies actually make them better at running specialist businesses?
• Travelport-Worldspan; Thomas Cook- MyTravel...as a travel supplier, will you benefit from the economies of scale and extensive distribution networks offered by these players? Or should you be wary of the loss of brand and distribution control that could result, if the balance of power does not tip in your favour?
• What will GDS consolidation mean to you and should these changes be cause for concern or cautious optimism? Will this really lead to the creation of more cost-effective, efficient and bespoke GDS offerings?

• Dermot Blastland, Managing Director, Mainstream Business, First Choice
• Steve Endacott, CEO, OnHoliday Group
• Lawrence Hunt, CEO, Silverjet