HRS selected by Airbus to Digitize its Global Hotel Programme

HRS, the leading Global Hotel Solutions provider, announced a landmark new contract today, with HRS being selected by Airbus to oversee the digital transformation of its hotel programme. HRS was chosen by Airbus to manage its global hotel negotiations and ensure the right content flows seamlessly into existing booking tools and new mobile applications. Beyond sourcing and booking, HRS and Airbus are working together to implement virtual payment for travellers for the totality of its preferred hotel properties.

With HRS virtual payment, travelers no longer need to use personal or corporate cards at the hotel. Expense reports for lodging are done automatically. The benefits for companies with significant hotel volume like Airbus are also numerous; HRS has the world’s largest hotel benchmarking database, and the company’s unique auditing practices (driven by advanced robotics) delivers enhanced transparency and lower hotel rates.

Mutual Focus on Digital Services for Everyday Business Travellers

HRS shares the goal of increasing use of digital solutions for all traveller functions. “The trend is clearly leading in the direction of digital solutions. Data transparency, cost efficiency and traveller satisfaction are today’s challenges that we solve with our solutions,” said HRS CEO Tobias Ragge. “Corporations are taking a closer look at the value of outsourcing versus traditional hotel programme management. Given today’s corporate hospitality arena – with digitization, fragmentation and globalization driving increased complexity – companies need a truly customizable model, and we are taking the lead.”

HRS is already engaging with global hotel chains, smaller groups and independent hotels on Airbus’ behalf for 2019 rate negotiations, with preferred hotel suppliers required to accommodate Airbus’ virtual payment initiative.

HRS to Highlight Virtual Payment Evolution at ACTE Global Summit/CLF Paris

A panel at next week’s ACTE Global Summit/Corporate Lodging Forum in Paris on 16 October will feature travel buyers, a hotel representative and a start-up discussing the benefits of virtual payment programmes for corporations. While virtual payment is increasingly welcome at global chains, there is still progress to be made when it comes to regional chains and independent hotels. This session will explore how the industry can accelerate more widespread virtual payment acceptance.