Press Release
June 8, 2001
ALEXANDRIA, VA -- Results from a recent polling of the Hotel Electronic Distribution Network Association (HEDNA)
indicate that HEDNA members oppose the dual representation of hotel properties via global distribution systems
or Internet distribution channels.
HEDNA's administrative arm, the Data Interchange Standards Association, conducted the survey on HEDNA's behalf
in early 2001.
As much as 86% of the members responding to the survey explain that dual representation should not be supported
via various distribution channels. Respondents cite confusion among travel agents and consumers and in managing
customer service issues as the primary reasons.
Dual representation is defined within the industry as the listing and selling a single hotel property under multiple
property codes, multiple chain codes and/or multiple hotel associates within a single distribution channel.
Furthermore, some respondents note that larger organizations could potentially buy priority placement, and ``shelf
space'' more frequently, forcing smaller independent hotels to spend more money to compete.
While the majority object to the use of dual representation, less than half (48%) pursue any legal recourse preventing
dual representation from occurring.
HEDNA members believe that dual representation, while it may provide for some increases in distribution for unique
product offerings, such as boutique hotel, creates confusion among consumers and only serves to weaken brand awareness.
HEDNA President Caryl Helsel of Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group said, ``we focus on providing excellent customer
service and developing superior marketing programs to brand our companies. Allowing dual representation and creating
confusion among travel agents and their customers does not place any hotel in a positive light.''
Learn more about this concern and the hottest hospitality issues in today's marketplace at HEDNA's Regional Meeting,
taking place at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, Calif., Dec. 3-7.
The Hotel Electronic Distribution Network Association (HEDNA) is a not-for-profit trade association whose worldwide
membership includes executives and managers from over 200 of the most influential companies in the hotel distribution
industry. Founded in 1991, HEDNA strives to stimulate the booking of hotel rooms through the use of GDSs, the Internet
and other electronic means.
HEDNA brings all segments of the hospitality industry together to determine how to most effectively evolve their
systems and services to contribute to the success and revenue growth of electronic distribution for hotels. For
additional information, please visit www.hedna.org.
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Contact:
HEDNA
Julia O'Brien, 703/837-6155
jobrien@disa.org