Innovation

💻 Riviera Travel, a UK-based cruise and tour operator, launched RIVA AI on 12 November 2025. This digital assistant, integrated into the Riviera Explorer portal, is designed to aid travel agents with tasks like handling inquiries and creating social media content. RIVA AI provides 24/7 access, reducing admin time and helping agents sell smarter and market faster. Developed with agent feedback, it's aimed to enhance efficiency and trade support. A rollout in Ireland is planned soon.

🚀 Travel Counsellors launched the TC Co-Pilot AI assistant to boost productivity and personalize customer experiences. Developed in-house over 18 months, it's integrated with their Phenix platform. Initially trialed with 120 users, it's now available to over 2,200 business owners globally. TC Co-Pilot aids in tasks like itinerary building and social media planning. Future updates will expand itinerary options and creative tools. The initiative highlights Travel Counsellors' commitment to innovation without replacing human expertise.

📅 Expian developed a web-based ticketing solution for large-scale operators, enabling platform creation in months instead of years. Traditional rollouts took years; Expian implemented a booking platform for P&O Ferries in six months, setting an industry record. The platform included upgrades, food, transfers, cabins, and pet options. Chief Executive Yiannis Maglaras highlighted that delays in digital transformation cost operators financially and operationally. Kenneth Rasmussen praised the alignment with P&O's business needs.

🗺️ Travel agencies using Vibe can now book and manage NDC offers through Sabre's extended partnership. Sabre provides access to 38 NDC airlines, two million accommodation options, and fares from 150 low-cost carriers. Vibe will also adopt Sabre's MultiTicket solution, which identifies the lowest fares by combining two one-way flights. This collaboration streamlines travel booking processes, saving agencies time and costs while offering tailored, cost-effective itineraries.

🏨 Cloudbeds launches its Preferred Partner Program to enhance value for hoteliers. This initiative highlights partners such as Amadeus, Flexipass, FLYR, IDeaS, Lightspeed, Mirai, Operto, Revinate, Siteminder, and Toast. Evaluated through a data-driven model focusing on customer adoption, integration quality, and support, the program aims to simplify tech decisions for hoteliers by promoting reliable solutions that drive growth and efficiency.

💰 July 17, 2025, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts partnered with Grubhub across nearly 6,000 U.S. hotels, spanning 20 brands. The collaboration offers delivery with no fees using Grubhub's app or QR codes. Franchisees without full-service restaurants were quick to adopt, seeing improved guest satisfaction and repeat business. The tie-up provides a six-month free Grubhub+ membership. Implementation involved seamless geofencing by Grubhub. Wyndham tracks usage to drive repeat stays and differentiate its brands.