Flight Centre Travel Group has partnered with technology platform Livn to streamline the booking process for global Day Tours & Activities (T&A).
The arrangement will help Flight Centre Travel Group provide next-generation, end-to-end connectivity to its preferred supplier base by using the platform to connect existing sales applications to global day tour operators via a single API (Application Programming Interface) that effectively creates a bridge between buyers and sellers of T&A.
The new solution, being developed in conjunction with a few other suppliers, will be available across FCTG’s stable of leisure and wholesale brands, including Flight Centre, Liberty Travel, Infinity and Travel Associates.
Livn was chosen to be a key part of the solution based on its global connectivity network with deep integrations to tour operator reservation systems and its aggressive future connectivity roadmap.
Livn technology will enable and manage the B2B connectivity using its secure API-based technology as a direct communications channel to Flight Centre’s nominated day tour operator partners, with no interference in their existing commercial agreements. Livn acts as a technology facilitator between the parties.
Previously, Flight Centre travel agents made bookings via website portals, phone and emails, which were not integrated with invoicing or reporting systems. Livn’s solution will enable these operations to be automated with real-time transactions and a fully integrated itinerary and booking management system.
“When Livn first started, we had a vision of moving 100% of all T&A bookings into a fully automated environment,” said Livn CEO Mark Rizzuto.
“In Flight Centre, we have found a like-minded partner set on replacing inefficient practices with technology that does not fail, works 24/7 and delivers multiple layers of value at all of its touchpoints.”
Rizzuto said using the tech, tour operators gain greater operational and cost efficiencies. Flight Centre will have the opportunity to sell more, given full integration into supporting systems. Customers also gain access to real-time availability and pricing across all of Flight Centre’s global distribution channels.
FCTG is currently transferring its T&A inventory online with full migration slated for completion by Q1 2021.
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