NEW B2C digital platforms are disrupting the travel industry to the detriment of some traditional companies, however, there is still plenty of room for collaboration between start-ups and other travel firms, specialists say.
Even as businesses such as Airbnb and WithLocals cut out traditional suppliers, Hai Ho, founder of Triip.me, said online business that focus on providing travellers with experiences should work more with DMCs.
“We need unity within the industry,” he said. “(Travel agencies) should worry less about tech, let us handle that, so they can focus more on keeping their clients happy.”
While Triip.me connects individual travellers with locals who want to share their culture, Hai Ho said the services the company provides – authentic experiences – can equally be used by tour operators and DMCs as part of a broader itinerary. “We are looking at how to work more closely with traditional companies.”
Mike Beunder, CEO of WithLocals, an online business providing home-dining experiences, said WithLocals has already started working with brick-and-mortar companies.
“We are working with travel consultants now, using our voucher system,” he said. “Their clients still have to contact our hosts directly through the online platform. That’s an essential part of the experience, as they need to talk about the meals, any food allergies they may have, directions to the host’s home. However, they can use the voucher for the meal and the agency pays us for the voucher.”
Willem Niemeijer, CEO of Khiri Travel Group, agreed that more traditional agencies should look at disruptive companies as potential suppliers. “Most people don’t have the time to look at all aspects of a trip – flights, hotels, transfers, tours – and put it together themselves. It’s much more complicated that providing an isolated experience. Handling that is our job.
“But sure, we’re always on the lookout for innovative products and there’s no reason not to consider these guys (like WithLocals).”
