TO keep up with international trends, American Express Travel (AMT) has introduced one of the country's first corporate online travel booking services.
This was launched last week in conjunction with its international strategic alliance partner GetThere.com, a web-based travel reservation technology pioneer and GetThere.com's South African distributor, E-Company.
Speaking at the launch, Nigel Adams, managing director for AMT, said that together with its strategic partners, the company would be able to offer customised packages specifically for the corporate market.
"Corporate clients now have access to a totally seamless service from browsing to booking."
He believes the convenience factor of online reservations, whether it be for airline tickets, car hire, accommodation, packages or specialist activities will soon drive the entire market towards an electronic service.
"The beauty of the online system is that it is not restricted to office hours and can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
Adams emphasised that AMT would continue to look for new ways of adding value for its business and leisure clients, with a number of online shopping possibilities currently being negotiated.
"These range from the pre-purchase of books, to the auctioning of hotel rooms and airline seats that become available at the last minute."
(Adele Mackenzie)
