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Insights from Industry Experts on the Battle Between Direct Booking and OTA
Expert Opinions on the Direct Booking vs. OTA Debate. In today's technology-driven world, direct booking is comparable to homemade meals – it's the top choice for many. We've compiled insights from industry experts to provide you
Expert Opinions on the Direct Booking vs. OTA Debate.
In today’s technology-driven world, direct booking is comparable to homemade meals – it’s the top choice for many. We’ve compiled insights from industry experts to provide you with valuable information on the ongoing debate between direct booking and OTA.
Mihir Parikh
Founder Director at MP WORLD TRAVEL
“The biggest advantage of direct booking is, Prompt and effective communication in case of any amendment which leads a quality experience among the esteemed client. If rates are equivalent to OTA’s then it will be cherry on the cake. Direct booking helps to build strong relationship among hotels by showing direct productivity.”.
Sanjay Ghare
Co-Founder and CEO, Vervotech
Direct bookings certainly allow hotels to retain more revenue and have more control over bookings. As hotel brands are increasingly trying to adopt the D2C approach, they shouldn’t discount OTAs’ benefits, such as consistent brand visibility and business, even in low periods. It’s not one versus the other. Optimizing both channels is the direction the hotels should opt for.
Sanjay Sharma
CEO, Organic Hideaways Pvt Ltd
“From Day one, we were very sure not to go beyond a certain limit of our business share of bookings through OTA’s. Our concern was more on delivering benifits to the guests and use the commission part towards guests satisfaction. Our business share with OTA’s was around 5-7% in this calander year. Technology has bridged the gap and best part is guests are happy booking directly”.
Reggie Fernandes
Head of Revenue, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats
‘By prioritizing direct engagement, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats not only streamlines the booking process but also establishes a deeper connection with guests. The transparent sharing of savings, coupled with a focus on inclusivity and tailored experiences, creates a compelling proposition for travelers seeking more than just accommodation.
Niraamaya’s success story underscores the enduring appeal of the human touch inherent in direct bookings, affirming that the journey towards guest satisfaction and loyalty begins with a direct and personalized connection.”
Shoaib Ali
National Sales Head, India, STAAH
“STAAH acknowledges the dynamics of the right distribution mix. While OTAs enhance visibility, STAAH emphasizes the value of direct bookings in building guest relationships and maximizing revenue. Striking a strategic balance between the two, hotels can harness the strength of both the channels for sustained success and increasing profitability in the digital era”
Abhilash K Ramesh
Executive Director, Kairali Ayurvedic Group
“OTA’s are good for the industry over all as they do promote a destination but direct bookings are always going to be profitable for an accommodation partner. But not all partners will have the budgets to market themselves globally and being listed on a reputed OTA makes the transaction more secure , easy & fast for clients who don’t know the accommodation partner directly.
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