1. Can you explain what GDS is to me in less than 50 words?

The Global Distribution System (GDS) connects over 600,000 travel agents worldwide, enabling them to seamlessly book hotels, car rentals, flights and more through one system. Widely used in corporate travel, it helps companies enforce health, safety, expense and sustainability policies by directing bookings through preferred agencies.

2. Who makes bookings through the GDS Channel?

GDS (Global Distribution System) bookings with hotels are typically made by:

Travel Agents: They use GDS platforms (such as Amadeus, Sabre or Travelport) to search for hotel availability, pricing and to make reservations for their clients.

Corporate Travel Managers: Many large companies use GDS systems to manage their business travel needs, including hotel bookings, as part of broader travel and expense management systems.

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): OTAs like Expedia, Booking.com and others often have access to GDS platforms to connect with hotel inventory for reservations.

3. What market segments book through GDS?

GDS primarily targets travel professionals and corporate travellers, offering a B2B approach, whereas OTAs are more B2C, focusing on individual travellers looking for the best deals and a variety of options. With the rise of technology, some GDSs are evolving to offer more B2C services.

4. What is a Chain Code & why is it important?

A chain code is a two-letter code used by the GDS to identify the chain or GDS representation company a property belongs to. GDS Chain codes help to reinforce the brand image and positioning in the different distribution channels, strengthening access to the community of travel agents and tour operators and thus the overall booking potential of a company. Using our chain code allows us to promote chain standards and loyalty to your properties.

5. What is an RFP?

In the hotel industry an RFP is a request for proposal that is submitted by a buyer, which in many cases is either a company or organisation, requesting rates for inclusion on their travel programme or, by an event planner.

They will normally give you the below information so you can give them as accurate a price as possible:

• Number of rooms
• Length of stay
• Expected number of guests
• Desired amenities

The Classic British and Great National teams will work with the travel managers to ensure that your hotel is sent RFP invitations, whenever relevant. Many of the GDS bed nights are booked on dynamic pricing, the fix price RFP model is secondary to this at most hotels in terms of production so you do have power in terms of rates and availability in terms of being distributed from your PMS.

6. What is a travel agent consortia?

A travel agent consortia is a network or group of travel agencies that band together to leverage their collective buying power and resources to negotiate better deals, commissions and benefits from travel suppliers such as hotels, airlines, cruise lines and tour operators. By joining a consortia, individual travel agencies, especially smaller or independent ones, can offer more competitive rates and exclusive perks to their clients, similar to those provided by larger travel agencies.

7. What support will you give me in growing this channel?

We provide end-to-end support to make GDS a sustainable, long-term revenue stream for hotels. From rate-building to content development, our team handles every aspect, allowing our hotel partners to focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences without needing in-depth knowledge of GDS intricacies. Our in-house experts ensure that all rates and content meet the highest standards, optimised to capture more bookings. Additionally, our feedback and reporting services provide actionable insights, empowering hotels to make data-driven decisions and refine their strategy for lasting success. By partnering with us, hotels gain a trusted resource dedicated to managing and enhancing their GDS presence, driving growth and simplifying the complexities of this channel so they can achieve their revenue goals with confidence.