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In the dynamic world of European hospitality, where digital check-ins, online bookings, seasonality and connected guest services are the norm, cybersecurity is no longer just a back-office concern - it’s mission-critical.&nbsp;At HBX Group, we understand the evolving landscape hotels operate in. As properties embrace contactless technologies and cloud-based systems to enhance the guest experience, they’re also expanding the digital surface vulnerable to cyber threats. The numbers speak volumes: the average cost of a breach in the hospitality industry is $3.82 million, and 89% of those breached report being hit more than once in a single year.&nbsp;The Reality: Hotels Are Prime Targets&nbsp;Hotels have become increasingly attractive to cybercriminals due to the vast amount of sensitive data they manage. From payment card information to passport details, this valuable data makes them ideal marks for ransomware, phishing attacks, and data breaches. The most common threats include:&nbsp;• Phishing &amp; Social Engineering: Tricking employees into revealing credentials.• Ransomware: Locking systems like bookings or payments until a ransom is paid.• Data Security Breaches: Stealing guest information to sell on the dark web.&nbsp;Why Hospitality Faces Unique Cybersecurity Challenges&nbsp;The hospitality sector in Europe faces a perfect storm of risk factors:&nbsp;• Contactless Technology: While convenient, it can open new cyber-attack vectors.• Open Networks: High guest turnover often leaves networks exposed.• Seasonal Staff: Frequent turnover leads to inconsistent cybersecurity training.• Fragmented IT Systems: Multiple property management systems across regions increase vulnerability.&nbsp;Read more about cybersecurity threats to the hospitality industry here.&nbsp;Our Solution: Proactive Cyber Risk Assessment&nbsp;In partnership with Wallbid, we’re offering our hotel partners in Europe a tailored Cyber Risk Assessment. This service provides an expert-reviewed cyber rating and actionable plan to strengthen their defenses—at exclusive rates below 80% of the market price.&nbsp;With our Cyber Risk Assessment, your hotel can:• Prevent business disruptions by identifying vulnerabilities before attackers do.• Protect your reputation by safeguarding sensitive guest data.• Save on recovery costs through proactive risk mitigation.• Continuously adapt with annual reassessments and updated action plans.&nbsp;&nbsp;Start with Insights, Improve with Actions&nbsp;Understanding where your hotel stands today is the first step toward a safer tomorrow. Don’t wait for a breach to act—assess your vulnerabilities now and get ahead of threats before they happen.&nbsp;Because in hospitality, trust is everything. And in the digital age, trust starts with cybersecurity.&nbsp;Ready to start improving your digital defences? Take your first step towards a safer and smarter cybersecurity environment with Cybersential, your cybersecurity solution for hotels.

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CYBERSECURITY: A TOP PRIORITY FOR EUROPEAN HOTELS

Cybersecurity: A Top Priority For European Hotels

What if there were a way of maximising revenues from every booking? Especially in the current state of the industry, with customer expectations rising, the market constantly changing, and emerging technologies becoming a part of how we work. Enter B2B solutions for travel agencies. With access to the right platforms and tools offered by partners like HBX Group, you can reach the right clients, broaden your portfolio, and access competitive rates.Below is a breakdown of how HBX Group’s B2B solutions can help with the top challenges you may face as a travel agent or advisor.Challenge: Maximising your earning potentialMany agents choose to focus on profitable niches like luxury or business travel, segments which serve clients with more complex and specific needs. However, higher rates do not always reflect the true value of a booking: you also need to consider the time spent on research, planning, and communication with clients. And since clients have high expectations, it often means you manage various platforms while booking hotels, experiences, concierges, transfers, and more.&nbsp;Solution: Find a platform with all travel partners in one placeInstead of booking hotels, experiences, and transfers separately, check out travel agent tools that centralise all your partners on one platform. This way, you’ll save time, broaden your network — thus increasing the value you bring to clients — and earn the ability to make more out of each booking.Bedsonline (part of HBX Group) boasts a global portfolio, connecting agents and advisors with over 250,000 hotels, 500 car hire providers, and 23,000 travel activities, all in one place – including those suited to higher-ticket travellers. By joining, you’ll not only gain access to a wide range of travel partners, but also exclusive rates offered only to Bedsonline members.For discerning luxury travellers, explore The Luxurist - a complete B2B ecosystem crafted exclusively for luxury travel professionals. With The Luxurist, travel agents can gain access to 24/7 concierge service (for both advisor and guests), 5000+ exceptional hotels, and exclusive privileges at no cost. Now available through Bedsonline, any booking tagged as ‘The Luxurist’ entitles your clients to premium privileges, including a 24/7 in-destination concierge service, welcome amenities, and check-out till 2:00 PM (outside of peak season). Alternatively, travel agents may prefer to book directly through the Luxurist’s own website.No matter how broad or niche your clientele, travel agents can experience the best of all worlds with HBX Group’s retail offering: whether catering to premium travellers, offering budget-friendly stays, or producing all-encapsulating itineraries (think stays, transfers, experiences and insurance as an example), adjusting your offering to satisfy all client needs could not be easier.Challenge: Finding the best rates and offersYou want to offer your clients properties that match their budget, activities that fit their travel style, and seamless transportation options to make the trip smoother. But it’s not always easy to find the right products, let alone competitive rates – especially if you need to navigate multiple platforms, keep up with fluctuating prices, and ensure supplier reliability. And when you add limited availability during peak seasons or last-minute changes, the process becomes even more complicated.Solution: Join a travel agent booking platformNo matter your needs as a travel advisor, we have the platform to support you – and deliver exceptional experiences for your clients.When you become a member of Bedsonline, you get access to its extensive product portfolio. The brand also negotiates the best rates for travel agents, which include exclusive agreements, agent-only offers, and priority availability for travel advisors.Bedsonline has over 2000 exclusive offers and a large network of hotels and experiences for all types of travellers, from budget-friendly to luxury. Partners get access to exclusive rates, with discounts reaching up to 60% off.Challenge: Standing out in a crowded marketWith so many options available to travellers, agents need to differentiate their offerings to stay relevant. This could mean promoting alternative destinations in the wake of over-tourism, finding reliable travel partners around the world, or using AI to improve customer service.Solution: Broaden your portfolio, equip yourself with the best tools, and keep up with current travel trendsWhile there are different ways travel agents can stand out, one effective strategy is to combine a broad, diverse portfolio with a clearly defined niche. That’s where HBX Group can help: Bedsonline’s travel portfolio covers various niches, such as eco-tourism, business travel and sports tourism – just explore the filters in its Booking Engine, with hotels and experiences to suit all client types. Of course, sticking to one niche isn’t necessary – serving all client types is no issue with Bedsonline’s vast product portfolio!In search of a distinctly premium travel offering? The Luxurist’s property portfolio can also be sought from within the Bedsonline Booking Engine. Simply select ‘The Luxurist’ in the Booking Engine’s ‘Promos’ section. For more complex or multi-stop itineraries, advisors can go a step further with The Luxurist Itinerary Builder — a dedicated platform designed to plan, book, and manage luxury trips end-to-end, with exclusive content, dynamic roadbooks, and concierge support built in. To make use of this, head directly to the Luxurist website, submit your Bedsonline login email, and receive your Luxurist credentials.When you become an HBX Group partner, you’ll get plenty of inspiration on how to use the latest travel trends to grow your business. Each year, we publish actionable reports, share countless consultative articles across our brands’ Resource pages, and launch marketing campaigns, timed at opportunistic moments to support travel agents in selling more.Challenge: Streamlining operations, campaigns, and seasonal offersOrganising trips, finding the best deals, and staying on top of peak seasons’ demands can be time-consuming. You may find that you’re constantly juggling client requests, supplier availability, and different platforms for booking, tracking, and communicating with clients.Solution: Sign up for personalised, data-driven insights for business growth, and benefit from a range of powerful toolsBedsonline’s booking tool for travel agents simplifies and streamlines day-to-day operations. Through the platform, travel agents and advisors can manage bookings, add additional travel products, and make updates. Within its award-winning artillery, users will find a quote management tool, allowing them to keep track of the itineraries and quotes that they’ve spent time building. Similarly, Bedsonline offers a helpful comparison tool, making it easy for agents to compare up to four properties side-by-side in a visual PDF, which can be shared with their clients and in their own branding.Bedsonline also comes with Insights, an AI-driven search and marketing platform. By using real-time data, Insights helps identify trending destinations relevant to your market. It learns from your booking behaviour — such as the destinations you’ve booked, saved, or discarded — to offer you personalised recommendations. With advanced filters, it simplifies the search process, helping you quickly find the right options based on location, theme, traveller type, region, or hotel star rating.Elsewhere, the Luxurist’s range of tools continue to impress. Its powerful Itinerary Builder offers access to over 5000 curated luxury hotels; real-time availability and AI-powered suggestions to streamline planning; and dynamic roadbooks to delight clients and convert quotes into confirmed bookings.Are you a supplier looking to improve your distribution and reach travel agents?Whether you’re a hotelier, destination marketing organisation, experience provider, or car rental/transfer supplier, HBX Group can connect you with thousands of travel agents. Our booking engines process 7 billion searches and 90,000+ bookings a day; what's more, depending on your desired strategy, your products have the potential to be booked in 170+ markets around the world.Broaden your network and increase your earnings with HBX GroupAt HBX Group, our B2B solutions for travel advisors focus on broadening your network, simplifying your administrative tasks, and giving you personalised recommendations that save time. Once you join, you’ll also benefit from the best rates for travel agents, which we’ve thoroughly negotiated with our travel partners, exclusively for you.Learn more about HBX Group and become a partner today!&nbsp;

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B2B Travel Solutions: Retail Travel Agencies

Cash flow is a constant challenge for business owners – and the travel industry is no different, with hoteliers, travel agents, and other travel SMEs often facing seasonal variations, unexpected expenses, and urgent cash needs.One solution that has gained traction in recent years is the cash advance. But what exactly is a cash advance, and how can it benefit your business?&nbsp;Let’s explore how cash advance solutions can help hoteliers and travel agents maintain healthy cash flow, improve their operations, and manage unforeseen financial pressures.What is a Cash Advance?A cash advance is financial solution that provides businesses with immediate access to funds. More than being a specific form of lending product, there are several types of cash advance solutions available in the market, including credit card advances, app cash advances, merchant cash advances and payday loans, to name a few examples.&nbsp;Unlike traditional loans, cash advances are typically repaid through a percentage of daily revenue or sales, making them more flexible and adaptable to the flow of your business. They are designed for short-term cash needs and offer a fast, straightforward process to access funds.&nbsp;Cash Advance Solutions for the Travel IndustryFor travel businesses, especially those that experience fluctuating revenues or seasonal peaks, a cash advance can be a lifeline. The funds are generally based on the performance of your business – whether you are a hotelier with fluctuating guest bookings, or a travel agency with changing booking patterns.&nbsp;How Can Hoteliers Use a Cash Advance?Managing a hotel can be both a lucrative and cost-intensive endeavor – and funds don't always align with the outflow needed for maintenance, upgrades, or emergencies. Cash advances can help hoteliers bridge that gap. Here are a few common ways cash advances can benefit hotel owners:&nbsp;•Maintain Cash Flow: Cash advances help hoteliers maintain smooth cash flow management during off-peak seasons, allowing them to pay bills, staff salaries, and meet operational costs without stress.&nbsp;•Invest in Hotel Improvements: Whether you’re redecorating rooms, adding new services like a spa or restaurant, or investing in technology to improve guest experiences, cash advances provide quick access to funds without the need for traditional financing.&nbsp;•Cover Unexpected Expenses : Things like emergency repairs, sudden staffing shortages, or equipment breakdowns can disrupt operations. A cash advance ensures that you have the financial flexibility to handle such surprises without impacting your overall operations.&nbsp;•Seize New Opportunities: A cash advance can also be used to take advantage of growth opportunities, such as running marketing campaigns, expanding into new markets, or upgrading hotel amenities to stay competitive. &nbsp;&nbsp;Did you know that you can seamlessly expand your reach and develop new partnerships when you work with HBX Group? Our hotel partners are positioned in front of a global audience consisting of more than 60,000 distributors, including tour operators, travel agencies and wholesalers. What’s more, this access can be yours for free – register with us today. &nbsp;&nbsp;•Expand and Scale: If a hotel is seeing increased demand, a cash advance can be used to scale operations by expanding physical spaces, hiring additional staff, or investing in digital solutions to enhance operations.&nbsp;How Can Travel Agents Use a Cash Advance?For travel agents, fast flow is equally important, but can often be unpredictable. Travel agents depend on booking commissions, seasonal trends, and fluctuating demand, and a cash advance can provide the financial flexibility needed to handle these variations. Here’s how a cash advance can benefit travel agents: &nbsp;&nbsp;•Improve Cash Flow: For travel agents, cash flow can be tight during low seasons or between peak periods. A cash advance can smooth out these dips, allowing agents to manage day-to-day expenses, pay staff, and ensure that their business keeps running smoothly.&nbsp;•Access Funds for Emergency Expenses: Travel agents might face sudden financial needs due to unexpected circumstances, like emergencies related to travel bookings or unexpected costs related to partnerships or marketing campaigns. A cash advance allows agents and owners to handle these surprises without disruption.&nbsp;•Invest in Business Growth: Travel agents may want to reinvest in their business—whether that means upgrading their technology for better booking management, launching targeted marketing campaigns, or expanding their service offerings. A cash advance can provide quick access to capital for these improvements.&nbsp;•Cover Staffing and Training Costs: For travel agents looking to expand or improve the quality of their services, hiring new staff or training existing employees might be necessary. A cash advance can fund these human resource needs without putting a strain on operations.&nbsp;•Seize Business Opportunities: Whether it’s expanding into new destinations, offering exclusive travel packages, or partnering with larger tour operators, a cash advance can provide the resources to seize these new opportunities and grow the business. (However, you can do all of this and more when you partner with HBX Group – better yet, registration is free.) &nbsp;Cash Advance Pros &amp; ConsWhile cash advances offer many opportunities for hoteliers and travel agents, understanding the benefits is essential in deciding if this solution is right for your business.&nbsp;What Are the Benefits of Taking Out a Cash Advance?Having identified the use case for your cash advance loan, it’s worthwhile to familiarise yourself with the qualities of a suitable financial support partner. Consider the following points ahead of choosing the a solution: &nbsp;&nbsp;•Quick Access to Cash in Emergencies: When unexpected costs arise, whether due to equipment failure or emergency repairs, cash advances may offer a rapid way to access funds without the lengthy approval process of traditional loans.&nbsp;•Flexible Repayment Structure: Traditional loans often come with fixed repayment terms, but cash advances can be more adaptable. Repayment is based on a percentage of revenue; flexible payment solutions ensure that businesses can manage repayment without stress, as it adjusts to their cash flow.&nbsp;•No Collateral Required: Unlike loans, cash advances don’t always require collateral. This makes the solution a viable option for small and medium-sized businesses in particular, and includes hoteliers and travel agents, who may not have significant assets to pledge.What Are the Risks of a Cash Advance?While cash advances come with many benefits, they also carry certain risks. These include: &nbsp;&nbsp;•High Interest and Fees: Cash advances often come with higher interest rates compared to a traditional business loan, which means that over time, they can become expensive if not managed properly.&nbsp;•Accruing Debt: Because cash advances are typically tied to business sales, businesses that experience a dip in revenue may find themselves in a cycle of debt without carefully considering how they borrow money, as repayments become more difficult to meet.&nbsp;•Potential for Mismanagement: Like any financial solution, cash advances can be misused if not properly managed. Without a solid plan for using the funds, businesses may end up in a position where they have spent beyond their means, or even where borrowed funds are abused.&nbsp;HBX Group and YouLend: Your Cash Advance SolutionAt HBX Group, we understand both the risks and rewards of running a travel business. It’s for this reason that we’ve partnered with YouLend, a trusted provider that specialises in business finance tailored specifically to the needs of the travel and tourism sector.&nbsp;Want the benefits of a cash advance solution without the associated risks? Here’s how we can help: &nbsp;&nbsp;•Fast and Flexible Funding: No need to tackle lengthy paperwork or drum up collateral – instead, you’ll gain access to funding in as little as 48 hours, with transparent terms and no hidden fees. Better yet? Our solution is also based on the performance of your business, not your assets.&nbsp;•No Fixed Repayment Plans: You won’t be locked into rigid repayment schedules. Based on a percentage of your monthly sales, our cash advance solution makes it easier to manage payments during high and low revenue periods – perfect for seasonal or fluctuating cash flow.&nbsp;•Tailored for Travel SMEs: YouLend’s solution is specifically designed for the travel industry, and is presently available to partners in Spain, Belgium, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, the UK and Ireland (coming soon to the United States). &nbsp;&nbsp;Grow Your Business with a Cash Advance SolutionFor hoteliers and travel agents, a cash advance provides a fast, flexible solution to manage cash flow, handle emergencies, and fund business growth. Choosing a solution offered by trusted partners like HBX Group and YouLend will ensure that your business can access the resources it needs without the financial strain – leaving you to focus on growing your business, safe in the knowledge that support is always within reach.Ready to seize new opportunities? Apply for a cash advance now.

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Unlocking Business Potential: How Cash Advance Solutions Can Benefit Travel Professionals

Destination marketing is more complex than ever. You need to highlight what makes your destination unique, manage seasonal and evergreen marketing campaigns, and build meaningful relationships in the travel industry. All while making sure your efforts benefit the local community.&nbsp;Make your job easier by exploring B2B solutions for Destination Marketing Organisations, connecting you with the right partners and supporting your marketing efforts. Here is how HBX Group can help your business with solutions for several different challenges:Challenge: Expanding Your Destination’s ReachYou may want to attract travellers beyond peak season, appeal to more international travellers, or promote specific experiences, such as a new museum or a local festival.&nbsp;In other words, you want to be known as a great travel destination by many people. To make this happen, you’ll need a broader network.Solution: Invest in Travel Networks Your Target Audience Is InGet your destination in front of thousands of travel companies by joining a B2B distribution network specialising in the travel industry. HBX Group brings together travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, and employee benefit programmes that constantly book trips for their clients.&nbsp;Via our Bedsonline brand, you can connect with travel agents who might be interested in offering trips to your destination. Or through Hotelbeds, we can help you to reach tour operators and online travel agencies, so you can show your destination’s unique features to a group of guests.&nbsp;Since both Bedsonline and Hotelbeds are part of the HBX Group family, you only need to register once, and you’ll have access to a wide network!Challenge: Time and Budget ConstraintsAccording to Sojern’s State of Destination Marketing Report, 51% of DMOs have budget constraints, 42% struggle with the volume of content they need to create, and 41% have a limited in-house team.&nbsp;If you also have a small team and limited resources, you may find it difficult to stay on top of trends, manage different marketing channels, and handle day-to-day tasks. As a result, you may be neglecting some marketing tasks and focusing on seasonal campaigns, which means your destination doesn’t get the year-round attention it deserves.Solution: Explore Full-Suite Marketing ToolsConsider working HBX Group's digital travel marketing agency to gain access to the right strategy, tools, and resources in one place.&nbsp;Specialising in the travel industry, we understand your challenges and goals. We'll help you to build awareness on multiple channels, including search engines, social media, PPC, and email.&nbsp;Working with us means you’ll have a clear understanding of how your budget is allocated and how each channel contributes to your objectives. Besides budget management, a HBX Group partnership will save you time, allowing you to focus on building relationships, researching new travel experiences, and managing seasonal campaigns.Did you know?: On average, HBX Group's DMO Marketing partners see a 20% increase in bookings during campaign timelines in target source markets!Challenge: Adapting to Travel TrendsTravelling no longer means only visiting the top attractions — it’s also about wellness experiences, cultural and culinary insights, the outdoors, and beyond. While each traveller has their preferences and interests, travel trends also influence their choices.&nbsp;These trends present great opportunities to align your destination’s offerings with what travellers are seeking. However, in an ever-evolving industry like travel, trends can shift fast. And without the right TravelTech solutions, you may miss them.Solution: Combine Travel Trends With Data and Marketing TrendsStart by identifying the current travel trends — HBX Group’s annual travel trends reports are a good place to consult. Then, think about what your destination has to offer and how you can communicate it.&nbsp;For example, ‘Joy of Missing Out,’ a 2025 travel trend, suggests that travellers are no longer driven by the ‘Fear of Missing Out’ mindset. Instead, they’re embracing ‘missing out’ on activities and booking more silent trips, visiting remote locations, and opting for laid-back luxury travel. As DMOs, you may consider exploring if your destination has silent hotels or luxury retreats.&nbsp;Once you’ve identified the trends you can leverage, it’s time to incorporate them into your marketing strategy. HBX Group — the same place you learned the trends from — can again help with its data-led marketing solutions, making sure your content is timely, relevant, and engaging.Challenge: Building Relationships With Travel Media and PartnersBesides local partners, there is a whole international market of travel and TravelTech companies, media, influencers, and travel trade you can partner with.&nbsp;Collaborating with journalists and influencers can add a storytelling element to your destination, which helps travellers relate better to the experience. And by making connections with decision-makers, you can unlock new opportunities for your destination, such as hosting an event or sponsoring conferences.&nbsp;The challenge here is to find these partners, which can be particularly difficult if you’re not located in the same country or if you’re representing a smaller destination with fewer resources.Solution: Gain Exposure Through Events and NetworksStart by broadening your network through memberships and events. An event not to miss is the MarketHub by HBX Group, which brings together hoteliers, wholesalers, travel agencies, and experience providers. This is a great opportunity for DMOs to showcase their destination to decision-makers and potential partners.Challenge: Building Responsible CampaignsOver-tourism frustrates both locals and travellers, as it lowers the quality of life in a destination. As DMOs, you have to find the right balance between promoting a destination, protecting cultural attractions and nature, and respecting the locals.Solution: Create a Destination Management Plan for Responsible TourismIn your management plan, define your destination’s long-term vision and outline ways you can attract responsible travellers. Consider aiming for long stays over shorter ones, locally-owned hotels over chains, and off-peak seasons over peak travel time.&nbsp;HBX Group’s Sustainable Hotels Programme has over 40,000 hotels with official sustainability certifications. In the HBX Group network, you’ll also find other sustainable companies, including travel agents and tour operators, serving clients who prioritise responsible travel and local experiences. Attracting these clients will help elevate your destination’s profile while also benefiting local businesses.Connect With Your B2B Partners - Register with HBX GroupHome to brands like Bedsonline and Hotelbeds, HBX Group allows you to showcase your destination to travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, hoteliers, eCommerce platforms, and more. Depending on your DMO’s goals, we can also help you improve your reach, find the right audience, and manage your online presence.&nbsp;Contact us today to learn more about our B2B travel solutions for Destination Marketing Organisations.&nbsp;

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B2B Travel Solutions: Destination Marketing Organisations

As a hotelier, you’re always looking for ways to attract more guests, automate processes, and optimise your direct channel. However, without a strong network and strategy, these goals may seem out of reach. What if you had a platform that helped expand your network, attract high-quality guests, and boost direct bookings — all while saving time?&nbsp;These platforms exist — mainly in the form of TravelTech companies offering B2B travel solutions. Below are some common problems hoteliers face and potential solutions, brought to you by our HBX Group brands.Problem: Not Maximising Your Booking OpportunitiesHow does your hotel receive its bookings? Direct channels, OTAs, and wholesalers are all valuable platforms, but they do not connect you with B2B buyers. Diversifying into the B2B market means you’ll work with travel partners who will help fill your rooms with reliable, long-stay guests. These guests book in advance, spend more, and create a predictable income stream.Solution: Expand Your Reach With a B2B Distribution NetworkThe B2B travel market is fragmented, consisting of different players such as travel agencies, tour operators, affiliates, and airlines. The good news? You can connect with all of them by using a B2B distribution network.A leading hotel distribution solutions provider, Hotelbeds has an audience of 60,000 businesses, including travel agencies, tour operators, online travel agents, and wholesalesers. Partnering with Hotelbeds gets your hotel in front of these professionals who actively book accommodations for their clients.Want to expand your offering even further? HBX Group partners with airlines, financial institutions, employee benefits programmes and eCommerce providers, putting your property in view of high-intent, loyal customers.Problem: Maintaining Rate ParityIf your hotel’s website lists a different rate than OTAs or wholesalers, your guests may get confused, and even lose trust. However, you likely manage various hotel distribution channels, so maintaining rate parity quickly gets overwhelming.Solution: Gain Control With A B2B Distribution PartnerHotelbeds uses cutting-edge data analytics, integration with channel managers, and continuous monitoring to detect inconsistencies. As a result, it has reduced hotel rate leakages by 75% in the past five years, boasting a rate discrepancy ratio of 0.005%. To tackle rate discrepancies, you’ll need a similar platform with efficient data-sharing, channel integration, and real-time updates.Problem: Underserved Direct ChannelWhen you have a well-designed website and a clear direct channel marketing strategy, you don’t only own your brand, but also create a professional image for your guests. Many hoteliers know how important direct channels are, but often lack the resources and strategy to convert direct bookings. This creates an imbalanced distribution mix, resulting in an over-reliance on OTAs.Solution: Work With a Strategic PartnerImproving your direct channel hotel distribution requires a digital marketing strategy, knowledge of SEO and metasearch engines, and often, an investment in web design and software. If you’re unsure where to start, you might want to work with a versatile partner specialising in the hotel industry.Roiback is a solid option as it offers different services tailored to your needs. You can work with leading web designers for a user-friendly website, adopt Roiback’s award-winning booking engine for a frictionless reservation experience, launch a rewards program for guest loyalty, or implement a mix of all these TravelTech solutions.Problem: Reaching a Targeted AudienceIf your guest base is mostly local, you may be looking to attract international travellers. Or if you only host leisure guests, you might want to expand into the business travel market. You aim to reach a new travel segment, but are unsure how and where to find them.Solution: Explore New Hotel Distribution StrategiesAdjust your distribution strategy, launch targeted marketing campaigns, and partner with new travel networks.That’s exactly what Hotel The Designers Cheongnyangni did to expand its reach beyond its native South Korea and attract long-stay guests. By choosing Hotelbeds as its strategic partner, the hotel gained access to an audience of 60,000 global travel distributors. It also launched a discounted long-stay product to reward guests who stay longer. As a result, the hotel’s sales increased by 10-15% per month, with both international and long-stay guests.Problem: Inefficient OperationsMaintaining rate parity, managing availability, and handling cancellations or last-minute bookings can be time-consuming, especially when done manually.Solution: Adopt the Right TechnologySave time, money, and energy by investing in B2B travel solutions. For example, Hotelbeds’ hotel extranet allows you to update your profile with facilities, services, and photos, update inventory and rates, and set up campaigns for early bookings, long stays, and more.If you’re already using a channel manager, you can easily integrate it with Hotelbeds, so you make the most of automation, data-driven reports, and real-time updates.Problem: Meeting Guest ExpectationsIn a 2023 survey, experience management platform Medallia found that 61% of consumers would be willing to spend more for a personalised experience. For hotels, this means tailoring every step of the guests’ journey from booking to post-stay. When guests have such high expectations, hoteliers may feel like they’re falling behind.Solution: Lean Into Data and Set Up Targeted CampaignsTraditional ways of personalising the guest experience include greeting guests by name, remembering their preferences, and offering recommendations. With technology in the picture, you can combine these with data, analytics, and trends.For example, if your goal is to reach more long-stay guests, you’ll want to offer special packages and discounted rates for extended stays. Or if you’d like to attract business travellers, you might highlight relevant amenities like fast Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and flexible check-in/check-out times in your offering. You can also bring the latest travel trends into your personalisation strategy, creating seasonal discounts, special holidays, and peak travel periods.As a data-driven company, Hotelbeds combines its TravelTech solutions with expert account managers who will take the time to understand your hotel’s unique needs. This way, you’ll have a personalised offer for different types of travellers, aligned with your long-term goals.Reach Your Goals With A B2B Distribution NetworkJoin the HBX Group family for innovative TravelTech solutions — whether that’s Hotelbeds’ extensive B2B travel network or Roiback’s direct channel optimisation services. Our solutions do not interfere with your hotel’s direct strategy, they simply complement them by adding a new revenue stream.Ready to take your hotel to the next level? Connect with us today.

B2B Travel Solutions: Hoteliers

What’s in store for the travel industry in 2025?The travel industry is at the dawn of a new era.2024 was certainly a year for the record books, bearing witness to sky-high travel spend and milestone international arrivals. As travel players from all corners of the industry eagerly look ahead to what comes next, we at HBX Group are pleased to reveal which trends we predict will shake up the sector through 2025 and beyond.Understanding these travel insights will be essential for any travel provider seeking to stay ahead of the curve. In this guide, you’ll learn:- Which trends will shape the next 12 months in travel- Which of 2024’s enduring trends are set to transform in 2025 and beyond- How travel providers can embrace the needs of the modern travellerAccess your free guide to travel trends in 2025 by clicking here.

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[REPORT] Travel Trends 2025 - What's In Store?

As global travel adapts to economic changes, evolving consumer preferences, and technological advancements, HBX Group is ready to embrace the evolution as a leading force in the industry. Unwavering in its pursuit of excellence, the Group remains committed to mutual growth and addressing the emerging needs of today’s partners and consumers.“This evolution is grounded in our commitment to adaptability, resilience, and innovation as we face the future head-on.”Nicolas Huss, HBX Group CEOThis report, created by HBX Group in collaboration with Skift, outlines our vision for fostering innovation, transparency, and sustained growth by implementing resilient structures, empowering the workforce, and enhancing customer experiences.&nbsp;Key insights from this special report include:- Lessons from HBX Group's rebranding and the launch of our Centres of Excellence,- The crucial role of HBX Group’s Executive Committee in driving innovation in technology, data, and product development,- A customer-centric three-year roadmap focused on creating personalised and frictionless travel solutions,- Details on a newly-engineered tech stack, designed to reduce operational silos and enhance booking processes,- A commitment to employee engagement, fostering a culture of shared ownership and accountability,- An overview of HBX Group’s ecosystem approach, emphasizing strategic partnerships and collaborative growth initiatives across the industry.&nbsp;Read the report by clicking here.

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[REPORT] HBX Group’s Journey Toward Excellence

&nbsp;The Knox Corps CEO, Scott Patterson, explores how travel professionals can protect their businesses by following cybersecurity best practices.&nbsp;I’m Scott Patterson, CEO of The Knox Corps. I’m also an accomplished information security executive, with over two decades of experience strategising and developing enterprise security programs for highly regulated organisations in sectors such as healthcare, financial services, and the United States Air Force. Additionally, I serve as the Sector Chief of the FBI’s Communications sector and as a Governor of Homeland Security. Given my background, I am deeply immersed in the world of cybersecurity.&nbsp;As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, I’d like to take the opportunity to share some of my knowledge to help you and your business stay safe.&nbsp;Cybercrime is a serious threat. There are organisations that, if attacked today, might not survive tomorrow. It’s a daunting reality. In the event of a breach, not only could a business face closure, but sensitive information — including financial and confidential customer details — could be compromised. Understanding how to strengthen security measures and implement an effective disaster recovery plan can be the key to either withstanding an attack or falling victim to it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Compliance is KingIs the travel industry a prime target for cybercrime?&nbsp;Yes, absolutely. In addition to the reasons outlined, there are many access points to this sector. Here’s a simple analogy: the more doors that you have to your house, the more susceptible you are to your home being compromised. If you have one door, you only have one to secure; if you have two or three, you need to be much more vigilant.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is the case in the travel industry – between email communications, telephone calls, third parties, partnerships, websites, and even payments, several areas could become compromised. This is where compliance comes into play.&nbsp;Dual ComplianceThe travel industry falls under what I’d refer to as ‘dual compliance’, where players must comply with multiple regulatory bodies.&nbsp;&nbsp;The first is the Payment Card Industry, or PCI, which has its own set of standards around securing the financial transactions surrounding the credit card and the credit card holder. PCI is only concerned with what was mentioned above since hotels must get paid, and the number one form of payment is via e-commerce, either web or in person. There is a separate council that governs and enforces PCI, and the cost of a breach could be substantial.&nbsp;On the other side, we have ISO compliance, which handles breaches related to all personally identifiable information (first and last names, addresses, the names of family members, health information, bank account information, emergency contact information, email addresses, and so forth). As you can imagine, balancing the different areas of compliance can be complex, and this is where I recommend a risk assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;A proper risk assessment covers technical and non-technical risks, providing a global perspective of dual compliance, where risks are aligned under each regulatory body and a mitigation plan is in place to remediate. In the end, one must have proof of such by way of what’s called a Report on Compliance (ROC).&nbsp;Enhanced Security, Greater SuccessUnderstanding the resources available to you is crucial. I get it — not every company has thousands of dollars, euros, or pounds to hire in-house security specialists. However, I can’t emphasise enough the importance of proper compliance and risk assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Let me explain why.&nbsp;Without due diligence, your company may not survive. Countless businesses have gone under due to a lack of preparedness. We are living in an age of technological advancement, and with that comes an increased risk of cybercrime. Staying up-to-date and well-protected is essential for your company’s survival, as well as for the security of your customers and partners.&nbsp;Customers and partners value security. Think about it — when choosing between two companies, what’s the differentiator? Today’s partners and consumers are becoming increasingly savvy and concerned about their online safety. On the partnership side, every brand wants to protect its assets, whether financial data, customer information, or a hard-earned reputation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Demonstrating a commitment to security can help you win their business by showing that you share their concerns.&nbsp;So, How Can You Implement Cybersecurity Solutions Without a Dedicated Team?&nbsp;This is where companies like The Knox Corps come in. We provide risk management, ethical hacking, forensics, vulnerability assessments, IT security, and advisory services to help you become cyber-compliant. That way, you can focus on delivering great solutions to your customers.&nbsp;I’d like to extend my gratitude to HBX Group for giving me and The Knox Corps the opportunity to address this important issue. Alongside Christo and Paula, we are committed to raising awareness about cybersecurity—outreach is essential.&nbsp;&nbsp;There’s one final thought I’d leave you with during this Cybersecurity Awareness Month: it’s to remain curious yet cautious about the digital world’s constantly evolving nature (consider the rise of artificial intelligence, for example). With that evolution, it’s vital to arm yourself with the knowledge needed to protect your business and yourself before you venture toward bolt-on solutions, such as artificial intelligence. Keeping up with trends while performing trend analysis is paramount to the success of your business. So, before focusing on trends, focus on the foundation first.&nbsp;Scott Patterson is an entrepreneur, professor, professional speaker, and Advisory Chief Security Officer. He possesses over two decades in organisational leadership roles, with proven experience in strategising and developing enterprise security programmes for highly regulated organisations in Healthcare, Financial Services, Education Insurance, and the Armed Forces.

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Scott Patterson cybersecurity best practices

The Cyber Shield: Safeguard Your Business with Best Practices

&nbsp;HBX Group garnered expert insights from Christo Butcher, global lead for threat intelligence at Fox-IT, on how travel professionals can safeguard against cybersecurity attacks.&nbsp;The hospitality industry is fantastic. This is a sector which thrives on the human connection, with a workforce which is inherently helpful and kind. There are benefits to this: from an enhanced customer experience to collaboration, innovation and morale, the sector’s greatest strengths can be attributed to a collective passion and empathy.&nbsp;Unfortunately, these positive traits also serve as a gateway to vulnerability.&nbsp;Cybercriminals love the travel industry. Consisting of numerous companies, a vast number of individuals, and significant financial assets, it is an appealing target. On top of this, its current level of cybersecurity is often lower than other sectors.&nbsp;So, how can travel professionals protect themselves from cyberattacks?&nbsp;The answer lies in understanding the cybercriminals, and working to strengthen against those weaknesses they exploit.&nbsp;&nbsp;Know Your EnemyCybercriminals are inherently creative, functioning much like entrepreneurs seeking lucrative opportunities. When they discover effective methods for earning money, they exploit them until those methods become ineffective. They then look for another way to attack – and in an industry as far-reaching as the travel industry, the access points are plentiful.&nbsp;Moreover, we exist in an evolving digital world. It can be hard for the average person to keep up – but for the hackers, cybercrime is their livelihood. They’re adept at staying up-to-date, looking for any opportunity to exploit their targets’ weaknesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are just a few tactics techniques which you might already be familiar with:Email Phishing: a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information, steal credentials, or infect the target computer via deceptive emails that appear to be from legitimate sources.Chat Phishing: a scam where attackers use instant messaging platforms to manipulate users into sharing personal information or downloading malicious software.Voice Phishing (Vishing): a technique where scammers use phone calls to trick individuals into revealing confidential information or perform actions information by pretending to be a trusted entity.&nbsp;As mentioned, the travel sector is a particularly friendly one. This makes its workforce susceptible to hacking via social engineering. Cybercriminals are master manipulators and have no issue with brazenly taking advantage of their proposed victims – if that travel agent, check-in clerk or phone operator is in a very helpful mood, it makes them extra vulnerable. However, there is a way to channel that helpfulness into a form of protection.&nbsp;Strengthening Defense Through CollaborationTransparency around cybersecurity offers a pathway to beating cybercriminals. Although many businesses feel ashamed to have suffered a cyberattack, others have gone public, choosing to bring attention to the crime in the interest of the greater good.&nbsp;Of course, not every company wants to admit to falling victim to what are increasingly common attacks. It’s easy to understand why: few want to appear vulnerable, especially when entrusted with valuable customer data. That said, sharing experiences of cybercrime, especially technical details of the attacker’s modus operandi, within the travel sector and with trusted authorities (like Fox-IT and NCC Group) anonymously reporting cybercrimes to an authority (like Fox-IT) is a valuable step to helping others and the industry as a whole to prepare and defend themselves from suffering the same fate.&nbsp;By sharing, we can build a stronger defense: it’s better to learn from the collective experience, than to sit with our own mistakes.&nbsp;In addition to leaning into the spirit of transparency – that much-loved trait that our travel professionals possess in spades –, keeping abreast of developments in the realm of digital technology and cybersecurity is paramount. After all, cybersecurity is not a static field: it continually evolves alongside the techniques deployed by cybercriminals. The public media has plenty of useful information, but engaging with specialised cybersecurity firms can provide valuable insights at speed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here at Fox-IT, we’re immersed in the landscape of ongoing cyberattacks. As committed cybersecurity specialists, our mission drives us to contribute to a safer society for all. From conducting cybersecurity assessments to sharing providing trainings on the issue, our technical and innovative solutions enable us to do just that.&nbsp;However, the most promising strategy for the travel and tourism sector is fostering a culture of collaboration – this is something we experienced first-hand when joining HBX Group at this year’s MarketHub, where we were able to speak directly to travel professionals about the challenges they face. These are individuals who have seen the issue from close by; businesses of all sizes, who have seen the damage caused. Mutual exchanges, such as those at the MarketHub (or in other forums) can significantly enhance resilience against sophisticated attacks.&nbsp;Awareness of this issue is growing, and to protect ourselves, we must work together to find a solution. This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, I wish to echo the sentiment that cybersecurity is a collective obligation – it’s time to empower ourselves by leveraging our diverse experiences and expertise as vital insights, as we work to strengthen our defences against cybercrime.&nbsp;Christo Butcher has been safeguarding companies since the turn of the century. He excels at illuminating the challenges posed by real-world cyberattacks and developing evidence-based strategies to fortify organisations against them. In an era marked by constantly evolving cyberthreats, Christo Butcher is dedicated to providing clarity, insight, and data-driven resolutions. His passion lies in growing clients’ cyber maturity and enhancing the safety of our digital landscape.&nbsp;

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cybersecurity how to protect yourself key insights Christo Butcher Fox IT

Cybersecurity: How to Protect Yourself in the Digital Battlefield

&nbsp;HBX Group's own Paula Felstead, Chief Tech, Data and M&amp;A Officer, offers key insights into the status of cybersecurity risks for the travel and hospitality sector, and how forward-looking businesses must adapt.&nbsp;It's time to get comfortable with an uncomfortable topic - cybersecurity.&nbsp;We are in an age where digital transformation is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and understanding the implications has never been more critical.&nbsp;We exist in a reality which is evolving every day, and with it, so do the risks faced by our industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Whether you're an individual or part of a business, security threats – from annoying spam emails to sophisticated phishing attacks – are a daily concern. On a global scale, these challenges become even more complex, especially as we operate within an interconnected ecosystem.&nbsp;Taking an ecosystem approach has its perks: partners gain seamless access to global products and services, typically at a lower cost, and certainly with less friction. Interconnectedness is paramount to collective success, but an uncoordinated approach to cybersecurity can have a significant ripple effect. To put it plainly: if there is a weak link in the chain, then the whole chain becomes weaker.&nbsp;&nbsp;At HBX Group, we see cybersecurity as a communal obligation. We all owe it not only to our own organisations, but also to every individual and business connected to us. Every transaction made within this ecosystem reflects our duty, and over the past three years, we’ve faced emerging threats head-on by investing significantly in security. With a dedicated cybersecurity team, we’re committed to ensuring that every transaction is handled with care.&nbsp;As we grow and innovate, we want to do so safely, trying to stay ahead of potential threats. Trust is the lifeblood of the travel ecosystem, so it’s vital that we keep investing in knowledge and technology to predict and mitigate risks—not just to protect our brand, but to safeguard the entire network of partners and clients we work with.&nbsp;In an increasingly interconnected world, it is essential to champion awareness and collaboration around cybersecurity, empowering everyone to not just react to threats but to proactively work together.&nbsp;&nbsp;For this reason, I am pleased to announce our efforts in developing a Cybersecurity Consortium: by partnering with notable travel brands and cybersecurity experts such as Fox-IT and The Knox Corps, the goal of the Consortium is to bolster the travel industry’s defences against growing cyberthreats whilst supporting a wider network of travel professionals. Many do not have the necessary funds available to do this alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;By sharing valuable insights, best practices, and helpful advice, this collaborative effort will connect those in need with companies that can provide the necessary assistance and expertise, fostering a safer environment for everyone involved in the travel ecosystem.&nbsp;It is my belief that actions such as this are required if we are to proactively address threats and work toward a secure digital future. The evolution of cybersecurity is not just about tech; it involves people, processes, and shared responsibility for our collective safety online. By sharing knowledge and openly discussing our challenges, we can cultivate a fortified cybersecurity landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp;I invite you to learn alongside us this Cybersecurity Awareness Month, as we share a wealth of insights and views from industry experts, including Fox-IT and The Knox Corps.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Cybersecurity Paula Felstead insights

It's time to get comfortable with an uncomfortable topic - cybersecurity

Hotels that strategically leverage these partnerships position themselves for sustained growth in a complex and fragmented market.

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In today's dynamic hospitality landscape, the importance of having a trusted B2B distribution partner cannot be overstated. Let's delve into why B2B distribution remains a key player in the success of hotels and how it addresses critical concerns such as cost reduction and rate leakage prevention.

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1. Diversifying Revenue Streams:

While OTAs and direct bookings are essential, B2B distribution opens new avenues for hotels to diversify their revenue streams. Establishing partnerships with reputable B2B distributors allows hotels to tap into different market segments, reaching a broader audience that will not be easily accessible through other channels.

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2. Cost Reduction through longer Lead Times:

Long lead times enable hotels to anticipate revenues and optimize resource costs, allowing to fill rooms in advance. This not only ensures a steady stream of revenue but also helps in optimizing inventory management. By securing reservations with long lead times through these partners, hotels can optimize revenue management strategies, allowing them to increase ADR on direct bookings and OTA channels. 

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3. Global Reach and Market Expansion:

B2B distribution extends the global reach of hotels by connecting them with non-domestic bookings - from markets where they could otherwise have never reach – or from niche channels, such as points redemption schemes, airline websites, tour operators, or retail travel agents. This widespread network aids in market expansion, allowing hotels to attract guests and explore emerging markets that might be challenging to access independently.

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4. Cost-Efficient Marketing:

Collaborating with B2B distribution partners involves shared marketing efforts. This collaborative approach helps hotels benefit from the marketing expertise and resources of their partners, reducing the individual marketing costs that would be incurred for reaching the same audience on their own. 

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5. Preventing Rate Leakage:

The unauthorized distribution of room rates is a top concern for hotels aiming to maintain rate parity. B2B distribution partners implement robust systems and technologies to prevent rate leakage, ensuring that the agreed-upon rates are maintained across all channels. This safeguards the hotel's pricing integrity and prevents discrepancies that could harm its brand image.

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6. Technology Integration for Seamless Operations:

Probably the best part about connecting with B2B distribution partners is the technology they offer to connect, creating a seamless operational environment. This integration streamlines processes such as inventory management, reservation handling, and payment processing. The result is increased efficiency and reduced operational costs for hotels.

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In conclusion, while OTAs and direct bookings play a crucial role in a hotel's success, B2B distribution remains a vital component to increase hotel’s revenue streams. The ability to diversify income sources, reduce costs, prevent rate leakage, and expand global reach make B2B distribution partners an indispensable strategy in the ever evolving &amp; fragmented hospitality industry. 

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💡 TIPS – Summarizing, the QUICK WINS of an agreement with B2B Distributors are:


	Distribution of sales across a wider range of countries, markets, and niche channels.
	Free marketing and Indirect advertising.
	Automation of systems and ease of distribution.
	Longer lead time, average stay and higher booking volumes.
	Robust systems to detect and stop rate leakage.



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B2B Distribution: the unsung hero of hotel distribution management

Travel TechLab by HBX Group is the innovation lab of HBX Group, powered by Wayra. The lab seeks to constantly re-imagine the world of travel by finding new ways to help our customers succeed, and to enable our business partners to achieve their goals.

As part of our ongoing mission to co-innovate with startup partners to deliver impactful, customer-focused experiences, products and platforms which reshape the travel industry, the Lab hosted a Pitch Day Challenge. Startups from around the world were invited to showcase the forward-looking ways in which their products and services are providing solutions to real-life challenges currently being faced within the industry.

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In this ‘Spotlight On’ blog series, we’ll be shining a light on each of the four start-ups that were shortlisted during this Pitch Day Challenge, to bring their work to the forefront of the travel industry’s focus.

This first ‘Spotlight On’ will explore the journey of Smartvel, a B2B SaaS company working within the travel industry to improve customer experience and SEO through the use of AI-powered digital solutions and high-quality content that resonates with their clients’ audiences, to ultimately drive increased sales and brand awareness.

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We spoke to founders Iñigo Valenzuela and Esperanza Zarauz about the company, their mission, and the solutions they’re bringing to the industry.

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Can you describe the genesis of Smartvel as a startup, including the idea that sparked its creation?

Smartvel was founded by Iñigo Valenzuela and Esperanza Zarauz. Both with C-level experience, we thought it was the right time to start our own adventure. Iñigo worked for many years in companies such as Marsans and CWT, and Esperanza in the media industry at Prisa and WPP. The beginnings were a rollercoaster, with ups and downs that involved discovering just how difficult it is to create a B2B solution in the travel industry, whilst always looking for technological advantages that would make our company stand out from the rest.

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We started Smartvel because we wanted to start our own company, and we thought it was the perfect dynamic for both of us. The genesis of the idea was that, as an industry, we had not solved the problem of how to properly inform the end traveller and provide real consulting added value in one part of the travel journey: information about the destination.

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Companies were focused on their own products instead of adding value in this area. We thought that inspiration drives sales and value, and that there was an opportunity to build a global trusted solution for that.

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Can you articulate Smartvel’s mission as a company and its long-term vision, outlining the problems it seeks to solve, and the opportunities it presents?

Our mission is to improve our clients' customer experience and SEO through AI-powered digital solutions and meaningful content, resulting in increased sales and brand awareness across the entire customer journey.

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We’re present at the top of the funnel, or the ‘inspiration’ phase; in the pre-departure phase, or in pre-departure emails; and also at the destination, with different solutions for each interaction.

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We offer the unique blend of a technology company and a content company, using technology to create content in a more targeted and efficient way. But at the same time, we have a relevant team of copywriters who create content at scale using technology as a critical tool.

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How does Smartvel fit into the larger industry landscape, and what is its growth potential?

We want to be the reference in the industry when it comes to travel content, understood as information for the traveller. The market is huge, and we are very happy to partner with Hotelbeds as we think it is the perfect fit for us to support our growth in different verticals like hotels, travel agencies and DMOs.

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We have customers on every continent, although we have been focusing more on the airline industry lately, so we think that hotels offer the best opportunity for global growth.

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What is your unique value proposition, and how does it set you apart from the competition?

We offer the best content with a mature travel tech company that provides customisation in content and products, detail, expertise, and a range of solutions that fit with the overall strategy of the industry.

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Tell us about the innovative solutions that Smartvel offers!

First, there are our Destination Content solutions, with everything there is to do in a destination, with POIs, restaurants, events like music, sports and culture, and any layer of content that our customers want to integrate, such as tours and activities, their own products, et cetera.

Second, we have our ‘EntryDocs’ solution, where we provide all the information needed to make a trip from A to B, taking into account nationality and residence.&nbsp; We provide health documents and visa requirements to take the stress out of travelling, and use technology to detect changes in these requirements. We read the official websites every hour to see if anything has changed.

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Who is your target audience, and what are the specific needs or pain points that your offerings address?

As a B2B SaaS company in the travel industry, we work with all players, from the suppliers of the final product, such as airlines, hotels, car rentals; to the classic intermediaries, like travel agencies, tour operators and bed banks; and all the different technology players around them, such as GDSs and tech providers. We also work with DMOs and other segments such as insurance or F&amp;B.

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Tell us about Smartvel’s accomplishments and milestones. What are your current significant achievements to date?

If we had to name our most important milestones, we would be remiss not to talk about how we achieved a positive EBITDA and operating cash flow, which is very important for any company – but for a startup, this is the difference between ‘life’ and ‘death’. We have also achieved significant global MkShare in some of our products. For example, with EntryDocs, we’ve reached a total global MkShare of international travellers of 30%.&nbsp;

As a company, we believe one of our biggest achievements is that we have, and continue to maintain, a strong culture in times of uncertainty and change, such as COVID or remote working, where innovation, and product change mindsets are key. That we also have a positive churn figure – which means that upsells from current customers exceed losses of portfolio – &nbsp;means a healthy portfolio of customers.

Another of our biggest achievements is being able to work with some of the most respected and biggest brands in the industry as a relatively small company (50 FTE). We always say that having demanding customers makes us a better company. Not to mention completing our first M&amp;A, by buying a direct competitor!

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How do you foster innovation, as a company?

Innovation is a challenge for any company, and it is exactly the same for a startup. We have some advantages, especially size and agility, but there are many risks: we can't fail too often to be generous; cash is king and can easily shut down your company; and the trade-off between talent and salary is complex to manage.

Our key to success, if you can call it success, has been to look for the best team, create a culture of transparency and excellence, and always look for new opportunities. What was a disruptive solution at a certain moment will become a difficult market over time. The only solution is to generate change, to be really open to it, and to create new solutions together with our customers.

We use the classic agile approach, so we are not very original. Of course, we do quarterly reviews of our strategic plan, reviewing and updating the mid- and long-term priorities.

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Meet the team at Smartvel

Smartvel's directors with Threedot.io&nbsp;team in a strategic session, pictured from left to right : Glenn Morgan (Threedot);&nbsp;Miguel Camacho, CTO, Eric Leopold (Threedot);&nbsp;María Liniers, CCO;&nbsp;Iñigo Valenzuela, CEO; Belén Romero, COO; Esperanza Zarauz, CFO

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TRAVELTECH LAB BY HBX Group

We explore the intersection of emerging technology and travel, to build innovative products and consumer experiences all whilst engineering solutions that advance HBX Group's innovation agenda, and better the lives of our customers.

We’re firm believers that in a collaborative environment, it’s all about exploring new horizons to future-proof our business and drive digital transformation.

Learn more about our work  here, and visit the Smartvel website to discover more about their offering.


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