Travel Weekly Group Ltd

💳 Chargebacks911 and Fi911 launched the Unified Dispute Management System (UDMS), a 'disputes-as-a-service' platform. UDMS eliminates data silos, offering real-time transparency and AI tools. It integrates seamlessly without system replacements and is subscription-based, with no hidden fees. Aimed at banks, fintechs, and travel networks, early adopters include Sabre Direct Pay. The platform offers tools for merchants, acquirers, and issuers to manage disputes efficiently, ensuring streamlined dispute handling and revenue protection.

🌐 In early 2026, a transformed travel sector will emerge, with AI reshaping operations and marketing. Google’s rule change led to an 88% drop in site visitors, impacting companies like Reddit (-15% stock, $5 billion market cap loss) and Monday.com (-40% stock in 30 days). Executives like those at Label Sessions emphasize achieving more in 100 days through Influence, Focus, and Foresight. Travel leaders must pivot strategies or risk obsolescence amidst rapid industry changes.

📲 Booking.com has launched AI tools, Smart Messenger and Auto-Reply, to improve partner-to-guest communication. The tools are live globally, with Smart Messenger available in the US, UK, New Zealand, and Australia. Early trials showed a 73% increase in partner satisfaction. AI Trip Support is available in 10 countries, providing 24/7 customer support. AI Rental Helper and Flight Search Summaries are also introduced. With 89% of consumers interested in AI for travel planning, these tools meet growing demand.

🗺️ British travellers in 2026 plan more holidays, with Gen Z and Millennials leading demand. Nearly 80% of Brits aim for as many or more trips, with an average of four trips per person. AI is used by 62% of Gen Z and 57% of Millennials for trip planning. UK travellers book 4.9 months in advance. Oslo, Copenhagen, Rabat, and Split/Zagreb are popular destinations. Partner-only breaks are most popular (44%), and 49% prioritize food and drink. Lux-scaping is rising, with 46% booking luxury stays.