As originally conceived, the internet was designed to connect networks of machines to share information, without considering the identity of a person or organization using it. With time, consumers have grown dually frustrated over the need for endless login and profile creation, while simultaneously losing privacy when sharing all of said information. Enter SSI, which allows for a single, trusted identifier to be used across the board for all vendors. SSI is a once-in-20-years technology development that has potential to be a win/win/win for hospitality & travel, where travel providers, travel intermediaries and travelers can all benefit.

Analyst: Nick PriceTopic: Technology InnovationSegments: Air, Hotels & Lodging, Online Travel AgenciesRegions: Europe, U.S. & CanadaResearch Type: Article

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With travel on the rebound as the pandemic wanes, suppliers and intermediaries have had an opportunity to take a fresh look at the products and services they offer. In particular, travel companies are adapting to their customers’ still-emerging requirements. In the travel category, Membership and Access-based subscription programs target a range of segments and demographics. The subscription model has gained traction, given its explosion in many, far-reaching aspects of consumers’ everyday lives. This article highlights some of the key benefits, features and challenges of travel subscription programs, and includes a list of some unique travel subscription offerings. 

Analyst: Hollis ThomasesTopic: Technology InnovationSegments: Air, Hotels & Lodging, Online Travel AgenciesRegions: Europe, U.S. & CanadaResearch Type: Article

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Phocuswright has tracked the digital travel startup landscape for well over a decade, and innovation in the travel industry has flourished during this period. Though a significant comeback is underway – with record funding recorded – questions remain about the stability of the upswing. Leveraging Phocuswright’s proprietary interactive database of travel startups, this updated report presents a comprehensive assessment and outlook for travel startups in today’s challenging environment. 

Analyst: Michael ColettaTopic: Technology InnovationSegments: Air, Car Rental & Ground Transportation, Hotels & Lodging, Online Travel Agencies, Tours & PackagesRegions: Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Middle East & Africa, U.S. & CanadaResearch Type: Report

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When COVID lockdowns receded in early 2021, it was expected that frustrated travelers would return with a vengeance. What was unforeseen, however, was a spike in demand so rapid it would nearly break the travel ecosystem. As it turns out, ramping up a $1.4 trillion industry (as of 2019) from a near standstill is no easy task. Planes were grounded, hotels shuttered, cruise ships docked. But the pains of restarting hit travel’s most important asset the most: its people. More vital than ever before, various tech developments and enhancements may end up saving the day. This article discusses some of the main challenges faced by the air and hotel segments in restarting and revamping their industries, while balancing the conflicting challenges stemming from high demand, skyrocketing prices and an unprecedented shortage of available workers.

Analyst: Lorraine SileoTopics: Technology Innovation, Destination & Activities MarketingSegments: Air, Hotels & LodgingResearch Type: Article

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Renewed drive for increased efficiency and a simplified, secure user experience as demands for the travel industry warrants a focus on fintech. Broadly defined as software applications that involve financial services such as payments, loans, settlement and insurance, employment of big data fintech solutions can solve problems in ways previously impossible. Within the travel industry, fintech generally concerns reducing processing costs, provide traveler flexibility or minimizing friction in expense reimbursement for business travelers. Pandemic-driven demand has highlighted the need simplifying booking/rebooking and payment processes for both business and leisure travelers. The potential for growth within the industry is high, if tech solutions are properly understood and applied appropriately.

Analyst: Norm RoseTopic: Technology InnovationRegion: U.S. & CanadaResearch Type: Article

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Phocuswright has tracked the travel startup landscape for well over a decade. During this time, the digital travel ecosystem has undergone tremendous transformation. Until the COVID-19 pandemic hit, travel startups were raising greater amounts of funding every year, challenging the status quo and leading the wave of disruption globally. The pandemic hit startups hard, but funding has bounced back strongly in 2021. 

Analyst: Michael ColettaTopic: Technology InnovationSegments: Air, Car Rental & Ground Transportation, Cruise, Hotels & Lodging, Online Travel Agencies, Rail, Tours & Packages, Traditional Agencies & TMCsResearch Type: Interactive Charts

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