Industry News from MeetingProfessionalsNetwork.com

nTAG Files for Bankruptcy, Dismisses Employees

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Boston-based nTAG, provider of Event Data Management (EDM) solutions for the meetings and events industry, has filed a Voluntary Petition for Liquidation under Chapter 7 of the United States Bankruptcy Code, according to its Chicago-based competitor, Spotme.

San Francisco Approves Hotel Tax, Tourism Improvement District

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

With the support of local tourism officials and hotel operators, San Francisco lawmakers have approved a new 1 to 1.5 percent hotel room tax that will fund the development of a so-called Tourism Improvement District in and around San Francisco's Moscone Convention Center.

Thailand Will Spend $450 Million to Revive Tourism Industry

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Thai government has announced that it will spend $450 million in order to revive Thailand's ailing tourism industry, which is suffering in the wake of nearly a year of political protests.

Delta Merged, Capacity Purged: BTN's Top Air Stories Of 2008

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

The air travel management landscape at the end of 2008 looks far different than it did at the beginning, after the merger of Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines, the decision of all legacy U.S. carriers to curtail domestic capacity and new fare-unbundling initiatives developed as carriers hunted for revenue. Those changes, though, could pale in comparison to the impact of the global financial crisis on air travel demand. Here are the stories Business Travel News has identified as the top air stories of the year.

Faces Of Innovation: BTN's Profiles In Travel Management, 2008

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Certainly, 2008 posed its share of challenges to corporate travel managers many of whom had to balance the need to cut travel costs with higher prices, all while grappling with developments in technology, globalization and green travel management. Today, BTN presents a sample of the most notable corporate travel management profiles we published this year. Happy New Year, all the best for a prosperous 2009, and thank you for reading Business Travel News.

Vegas' Newest Resort, Encore, Opens on the Strip

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Wynn Resorts' newest Las Vegas hotel, Encore, has opened on the Las Vegas Strip.

Worktopia: To Cope With Economy, Companies Cutting Meeting Costs, Not Frequency

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

In response to the global economic recession, most companies are meeting on reduced budgets, but not necessarily with reduced frequency, suggests a new survey from Worktopia.

View From The Top: BTN's 2008 CEO Interviews

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Business Travel News throughout 2008 again spoke exclusively with several of the CEOs of some of the largest suppliers in the corporate travel industry to discuss the tumultuous market and the road ahead.

Iraq Plans to Turn Saddam Hussein's Babylon Palace into Hotel, Convention Center

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

In celebration of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, Iraqi government officials finally opened one of Saddam Hussein's famed palaces to tourists on Dec. 9.

HCEA Plans Panel Discussion of Healthcare Exhibitions, Marketing

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Atlanta-based Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association has announced that it will sponsor a live discussion of marketing laws at its upcoming Healthcare Convention Marketing Summit.

Recession Repression: BTN's Top Travel Management Stories Of 2008

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Corporate travel buyers in 2008 wrestled with the necessity of cutting travel costs in an a recessionary environment as pricesâ��at least for a good part of the yearâ��rose, in some cases dramatically. With no economic recovery in sight, buyers are expected to experience price decreases, a more receptive negotiating environment and a strong shift to what could truly be a buyer's market. Here are the stories Business Travel News has identified as the top travel management stories of the year.

MPI Expands into Asia, South America

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Dallas-based Meeting Professionals International has launched new chapters in Korea and Brazil, it announced this month.

Online Prep Helps Students Pass CMP Exam, PCMA Reports

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Of students who enrolled in its CMP Online Prep course in 2008, 98 percent passed the Certified Meeting Professional examination on their first try, the Chicago-based Professional Convention Management Association announced this month.

Reversal Of Fortune: BTN's Top Hotel Stories Of 2008

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Hoteliers entered 2008 on the wave of a seller's market that analysts said was here to stay for at least another year or two. Little did they know that by the end of the year, the deepening global economic crisis would have reversed it completely into what analysts now are calling a buyer's market. The quickly changing forecasts were the big story of the year, but economic woes did not keep some hotel companies from making investments of interest to the business travel buyer. Here are the stories Business Travel News has identified as the top lodging stories of the year.

Transatlantic Market Shedding Capacity Despite Open Skies

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The transatlantic air travel market in the first quarter of 2009 will lose nearly 384,717 seats, nearly 5 percent less capacity than in the same period this year, according to OAG data. The reduction is surprising, given that new capacity and service flooded the market in the second quarter of 2008, following the enactment of the Open Skies agreement that aimed to grow business between the United States and Europe.

MPI Appoints New Chief Operating Officer

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

After a thorough search, Dallas-based Meeting Professionals International has named Trey Feiler its new chief operating officer.

TIA Launches Travel Web Site for Obama Transition Team

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Washington, D.C.-based Travel Industry Association (TIA) has launched a new Web page that's intended to inform and educate President-elect Barack Obama's new Administration on critical travel industry issues.

One-on-One with Carino Collection's Joe Carino: Hotel Rep Firm To Evolve With New GDS Code

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Joe Carino, president of hotel representation firm The Carino Collection, recently spoke with Business Travel News hotel editor Michael B. Baker about the firm's outlook for the year aheadâ��in particular, its planned January launch of a global distribution system codeâ��and its name change.

Apple Says 2009 Macworld Expo Is Its Last

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Because it says trade shows have become a small part of its marketing mix, Apple has announced that next month's Macworld Expo in San Francisco, taking place Jan. 5-9, 2009, will be its last.

In Lieu Of Slot Auctions, DOT Pushes Voluntary LaGuardia Cuts

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Two weeks after an appeals court delayed its plan to auction slots at the three major New York-area airports, the U.S. Department of Transportation today called on carriers to voluntarily reduce scheduled operations at La Guardia Airport from 75 departures and arrivals per hour to an average of 71.

German Distribution Tech Provider To Offer Corporate Tool

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

German travel technology provider Ypsilon.net AG plans to launch in 2009 a corporate version of its multisource distribution engine and a Web-based point-of-sale agent booking tool, according to Ypsilon vice president of sales and marketing Patrick Coulomb. The company currently provides the system for some of the largest leisure travel agencies in Europe and several leisure agencies and consolidators in North America.

MGM Mirage to Sell Treasure Island for $775 Million

Sun, 21 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Las Vegas-based MGM Mirage, owner of at least 12 Las Vegas properties, including the MGM Grand, the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, the Mirage and Luxor, among others, will sell Treasure Island Hotel & Casino to billionaire Phil Ruffin, it announced last week.

HSMAI Announces 2009 'Affordable Meetings' Conferences, Dates

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The McClean, Va.-based Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International has announced the dates for its 2009 Affordable Meetings Conference & Expositions.

As Tenure Ends, ACTE's Crum Reflects On Presidency

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Toward the close of the Association of Corporate Travel Executives' Global Education Conference in Rome in October, BTN editor-in-chief David Meyer met with Richard Crum and predecessor Greeley Koch to discuss Crum's nearly completed term as president.

Post Terror, Mumbai Hotels to Re-open This Weekend

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Less than a month after terrorists took them over, the Trident Hotel and the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower in Mumbai, India, are readying themselves for resilient re-openings, they recently announced.

More Bureaus Join Growing Industry Packs

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Destination Marketing Association International has qualified 13 more members in its destination marketing accreditation program, while the Convene Green Alliance has added four more CVBs to its membership.

Starwood To Give Clear Access To Loyalty Program Members

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide struck a deal to offer its Preferred Guest Platinum members a free annual membership in the Clear Registered Traveler program, and Gold and Preferred members a complimentary three-month trial, the companies announced today.

Despite Affordable Fuel, Airlines Brace for $2.5B Global Loss in 2009, IATA Says

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Although fuel prices have fallen dramatically in the last quarter, the global airline industry still expects to see a multibillion-dollar loss in 2009, according to the International Air Transport Association.

VenueQuest Plans 'Karma Kick-Off' Week for 2009

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

VenueQuest Global Meetings & Travel has announced a large-scale volunteer effort taking place the week of Jan. 1, 2009, that consists of an entire week of volunteerism by VenueQuest employees, as well as individuals at participating companies nationwide.

New Rearden Dashboard Tracks, Analyzes Ancillary Booking Spending

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Rearden Commerce today announced the release of a Web-based dashboard-style management information system for its online platform that enables companies to monitor and analyze spending and usage data for online bookings, including off-airport parking reservations, packaged shipping, event tickets and Webconferencing data.

Economy Impacts Incentive Program Planning, IRF Survey Says

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Although it's expected to negatively impact the incentive travel industry in 2009, the nation's down economy may also give an unexpected boost to some incentive programs, suggests a new survey from the Incentive Research Foundation.

Hertz Inaugurates Car-Sharing Program

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Hertz Corp. today announced the launch of the first car-sharing program offered by an international car rental company. Hertz's Connect by Hertz car-sharing system, much like the established models of such suppliers as Zipcar, allows clients to use vehicles on a pay-as-you-go system, booking cars either online or over the telephone for usage as necessary.

National Adds Nine Cities To Toll Pass Program

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

National Car Rental this week announced an expansion of its electronic toll payment system program into nine additional cities.

IHG Taps Hyatt's Abrahamson As Americas President

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts today named Global Hyatt development executive Jim Abrahamson its president of the Americas region, effective Jan. 5, 2009. Abrahamson will report directly to IHG CEO Andrew Cosslett.

CEIR Launches Generational Study of Young Event Attendees

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Center for Exhibition Industry Research has commenced a large-scale research project designed to give the meetings industry insight into younger generations' feelings and attitudes towards exhibitions and events.

NBTA: Travel Management Important in Light of Incidents in India, Thailand

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

In light of recent security incidents in Asia, the National Business Travel Association has conducted a survey in order to determine the impact on business travel at American companies.

CWT Buys Out Irish Partner

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Carlson Wagonlit Travel today announced the acquisition of Executive Travel Group, its Irish travel management company partner. CWT claims the agency handles â�¬37.5 million annually.

CompuSystems, Travel Tech Partner on Integrated Housing, Registration Services

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Chicago-based event services company Travel Technology Group has partnered with CompuSystems, a Broadview, Ill.-based trade show registration contractor, in order to create an integrated online registration and housing tool for the trade show industry.

In Mexico, Mundo Imperial Resort and Convention Center Fall Prey to Economy

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Due to the global economic crisis, work on a massive Mexican resort project known as Mundo Imperial has been suspended indefinitely.

Freeman Reaches Out to New Exhibitors with 'Tips' White Paper

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Event management company Freeman has released a new white paper for first-time tradeshow exhibitors that offers advice and insights on face-to-face marketing in order to help industry newbies succeed at their first events.

ARC Data Show Deepening Drop In Airline Transactions

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The U.S. point-of-sale air transaction slide continued to accelerate in November as total transactions decreased 19.7 percent year-over-year, according to ARC data released today. Domestic transactions fell 20.4 percent and international transactions dropped 17.7 percent during the month, ARC said.

NYU's Hanson Sees Strongest Buyer's Market In 33 Years Ahead

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The lodging industry is experiencing the strongest buyer's market in 33 years with no recovery on the horizon across demand segments, industry analyst Bjorn Hanson said today in the keynote address at Business Travel News' Virtual Corporate Travel World.

Following Political Protests, Airports Reopen in Bangkok

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

After more than a week of antigovernment protests that left local airports inoperable, air travel and tourism have resumed in Bangkok, Thailand, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

TRX Promotes Hammond To CEO; Davis To Chair Board

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

TRX today announced that current executive vice president Shane Hammond will replace Trip Davis as president and CEO, effective tomorrow. Davis will become chairman of the board of the publicly traded company, replacing Joop Drechsel, CEO of sister company BCD Travel and CEO of TRX's majority shareholder BCD Holdings.

PKF Predicts Depth Of Hotel Revenue Drop

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Hotels are likely in 2009 to see the fifth-worst decline in revenue per available room in the modern lodging industry's history and are unlikely to see RevPAR rise again until the second quarter of 2010, according to a PKF Hospitality Research forecast update released Tuesday.

GEP Annual Survey: DMCs See Challenges, Opportunities in 2009

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Global Events Partners has released the results of its annual global DMC survey, in which it forecasts "significant challenges, but cautious optimism" for DMC businesses in 2009.

ASAE Resolves Suit, Stops Solicitation of Meeting Attendees

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The American Society of Association Executives has successfully resolved a dispute with a Las Vegas-based lodging reservations company, which it accused of unauthorized solicitation of ASAE meeting attendees.

Study Shows Many U.S. Buyers Plan Tighter Travel Policies

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Many travel managers, especially in the United States, plan on higher 2009 costs and expect to further restrict travel policy in response, according to AirPlus' new International Travel Management Study 2008, which it plans to release tomorrow.

EU, Canada Open Skies

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The European Commission today announced that it has finalized negotiations on a new bilateral air services agreement that enables European carriers to operate direct flights to Canada from any European point, while removing restrictions on foreign investment.

IATA Projects 2009 Airline Losses

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The International Air Transport Association today said airlines are operating in the worst revenue environment in 50 years and projected global industrywide losses to hit $2.5 billion in 2009â��on top of a projected $5 billion loss for 2008.

Appeals Court Halts NYC Slot Auctions

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

An appeals court in Washington, D.C., yesterday ordered the U.S. Department of Transportation to halt its proposed slot auctions at the three major New York City-area airports, which were set to begin next month, as it further reviews the legality of the proceedings.

BtoB: Virtual Trade Shows, Conferences Growing in Popularity

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Online trade shows and virtual conferences are taking off as revenue generators and marketing tools for business-to-business Web sites, says a new report from BtoB Magazine, which describes the evolution of virtual events from gimmicks into game-changers.

United Monetizes Priority Airport Lanes

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

United Airlines today launched its "Premier Line" service, which allows passengers to access priority checkin, security screening and boarding lanes for a fee.

Profiles In Travel Management: UnitedHealth Adds Heavy Dose Of Travel Technology

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

UnitedHealth Group this year implemented a new online booking system in conjunction with pre-trip authorization and ticket tracking tools, which the company estimates, along with the three-year renewal of its travel management company contract with American Express Business Travel, would save several million dollars this year.In just 12 weeks, global travel and meetings manager Tamara Gordon led the Minneapolis-based health and insurance services provider's conversion from a 90 percent off-line booking environment to one with an 81 percent online adoption rate after implementing the Cliqbook self-booking tool.

Wal-Mart Travel Buyer Duane Futch Joins GetThere

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

GetThere today announced that former Wal-Mart director of global travel services Duane Futch has joined the company as vice president of travel procurement strategy, providing consulting to current clients, prospects and agency resellers.

Newsmaker: Amadeus' David Jones Ascends To CEO Position

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amadeus commercial head David Jones on Jan. 1, 2009, will take on the role of president and CEOâ��filling the position held for 18 years by JosÃ© Antonio TazÃ³n, who is heading into retirement and a non-executive role as chairman of the Amadeus board.

Airline Execs See A Better '09

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Domestic airline executives this month struck a tone of optimism despite a bleak economic environment, slowing demand and falling revenue, as declining fuel costs and aggressive 2008 capacity cuts are setting the stage for profits in 2009.

Inside Track: Bastian: Delta, Northwest Integration "On Track"

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Delta Air Lines president Edward Bastian told investors this month that integration with newly acquired subsidiary Northwest Airlines is "fully on track and going well." He said 2009 would be a "transition year for us," noting that the carriers would not act as one entity until they are granted a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, expected in late 2009.

ITMCs Step Up International Plans

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Internet travel management companies are accelerating international expansion plans for 2009 as many of their clients broaden the scopes of their travel programs and look to consolidate suppliers globally. Egencia, Orbitz for Business and Travelocity Business in the past several weeks announced different expansion approaches, but each so far focuses more on serving current clients than signing new clients outside the United States.

United, Sabre To Enable Point-Of-Sale Upselling

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

United Airlines and Sabre are working to enable the global distribution system's subscribers to upsell economy passengers to the carrier's Economy Plus cabin at the point of sale. Officials said the option would be available to Sabre-subscribing travel agencies in the first quarter of 2009.

Op-Ed: Price, Service, Quality: Pick Any Two For Travel Supplier Relationship Management

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The corporate travel industry has seen a significant change in travel procurement, dating back to the decline and eventual elimination of airline commissions. When airline commissions were at their peak, the focus was on the percentage of the rebate travel agencies offered, with little regard for service or the quality of the associated travel products.

Op-Ed: Travel Policy Restrictions Can't Ignore Corporate Liability

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Calamitous economic times, coupled with the rising cost of business travel, have impelled many corporations to adopt more restrictive travel policies. Among the changes being implemented are requiring employees to schedule outbound and return flights on the same dayâ��this to avoid the cost of a hotel stayâ��and requiring employees to rent cars and drive themselves to and from the airport rather than utilizing black car service. Such cost-cutting measures make for longer and more exhausting travel days, with the attendant risk to travelers who may find themselves behind the wheel of a car at the end of a 14-hour workday.

BA, Qantas Explore Merger

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

British Airways this month confirmed merger discussions with Qantas Airways. BA in a statement said it is "exploring a potential merger with Qantas Airways Limited via a dual-listed company structure," but warned, "There is no guarantee that any transaction will be forthcoming and a further announcement will be made in due course, if appropriate."

Qantas Eyes Corp. Demand, U.S. Access, Service Classes

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Qantas Airways head of sales and distribution Rob Gurney spoke with BTN senior editor Jay Boehmer last month about Australian corporate demand, the impact of premium economy class seating on business travel and the effect of aircraft technology on the carrier's hope of serving U.S. interior points nonstop.

Industry Vet Eric Danziger Returns To Head Wyndham

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Wyndham Hotel Group has wooed lodging industry veteran Eric Danziger, a leader from the company's formative years, to return as its new chief executive.

Chains Reluctant To Follow Marriott On International E-Folio

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Multinational travel managers are urging hotel chains to follow Marriott's lead in providing e-folio data at properties outside North America, although hoteliers said they still need to be persuaded it would be a worthwhile investment.

Chauffeured Transportation Suppliers Enhance Online Booking

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Several of the largest chauffeured transportation companies recently have launched or are working on updates to their online booking tools, promising better control over spending.

PCMA Previews 53rd Annual Meeting Program

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Professional Convention Management Association has announced several program highlights for its upcoming annual meeting, taking place Jan. 11-14 in New Orleans.

Destination Colorado Names 2008 Member of the Year

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Destination Colorado, a destination management company with more than 100 Colorado-based members, has named Joanne Melser its 2008 Member of the Year.

Austria Approves Lufthansa To Buy Austrian Airlines

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Austrian government today gave the go-ahead for Lufthansa to purchase a 41.56 percent stake in Austrian Airlines, paving the way for a complete acquisition of the Austrian flag carrier by Germany's dominant airline.

Mumbai Attacks Spur Buyer, Hotelier Security Reassessments

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Last week's Mumbai terrorist attacks, which included assaults on luxury hotels, prompted travel buyers to reassess their international hotel programs and other hotel properties to review their own safety and security infrastructures.

StarCite Names Kevin Iwamoto Vice President, Enterprise Strategy

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Philadelphia-based meeting technology company StarCite has recruited meetings industry veteran Kevin Iwamoto as its new vice president of enterprise strategy.

In New White Paper, Meeting Strategies Worldwide Explores Economic, Environmental Challenges

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Meeting Strategies Worldwide, a Portland, Ore.-based environmental consulting firm, has released a new white paper in which it discusses the impact of the economy and the environment on the global meetings industry.

Kevin Iwamoto Joins StarCite

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Meetings management technology company StarCite today announced that it has hired Kevin Iwamoto as its vice president of enterprise strategy. Iwamoto, who started in the job this week, recently left his previous post as a longtime member of the Hewlett-Packard travel team. While on the HP team, he served as president of the National Business Travel Association and was named the 2002 Business Travel News Travel Manager of the Year.

To Fight Recession, AmEx Offers Complimentary Travel Program Assessments

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Because it wants to help companies recession-proof their corporate travel programs, American Express Business Travel has announced that it is offering complimentary travel program assessments to companies of all sizes around the world.

Concur Offers Premium Training And Optimization Services

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Expense management supplier Concur today announced the launch of a premium service offering for its clients, including analytical capabilities, configuration optimization and best practices modeling.

ACTE Honors Leading Global Education Conference Presenters

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) has presented "Distinguished Fellow" awards to seven of the best presenters at its recent Global Education Conference.

In Pursuit of Federal Bailout, GM Consolidates, Cancels Meetings

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

General Motors, which is currently lobbying the federal government for a massive industry bailout, has canceled its franchise make meetings at the 2009 National Automobile Dealers Association convention, as well as its upcoming Minority Dealer Development Conference.

BA, Qantas Explore Merger

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

British Airways today confirmed merger discussions with Qantas Airways. BA in a statement said it is "exploring a potential merger with Qantas Airways Limited via a dual-listed company structure," but warned, "There is no guarantee that any transaction will be forthcoming and a further announcement will be made in due course, if appropriate."

Delta To Further Cut Capacity

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Delta Air Lines CEO Richard Anderson and president Edward Bastian in a memo released today said the carrier, combined with its recently acquired Northwest Airlines subsidiary, would further reduce systemwide capacity by up to 8 percent in 2009. Delta said the action "comes as a result of the global economic recession and weaker demand for air travel."

Despite Economy, ACTE Reports Record Attendance at Canada Conference

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

In spite of turmoil in the global economy, a record 360 business travel managers attended the third annual Canada Education Conference last month in Toronto, according to its organizer, the Association of Corporate Travel Executives.

HRG Posts Revenue Growth, Cautions On Outlook

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Hogg Robinson Group last week posted significant revenue increases for the first six months of its fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30, buoyed by revenue growth in all regions and favorable currency exchange rates. However, CEO David Radcliffe said that for the first time in 38 years he is being cautious as the economic conditions worsen.

StarCite Founder Launches Social Network for Meeting, Event Planners

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Industry veteran John Pino, founder of Philadelphia-based meeting technology company StarCite, has launched what he says is the first industry-specific social networking site for global meeting and event planners.

NBTA to Sponsor Pharmaceutical Meeting Management Forum

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The National Business Travel Association has joined the Pharmaceutical Meeting Management Forum as an association sponsor, it announced this week.

AH&LA Embraces, Implements Green Guidelines

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The American Hotel & Lodging Association has launched a new green lodging strategy with which to educate, inform and motivate its members.

MPI Forms Council to Explore Meetings Industry Opportunities

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Dallas-based Meeting Professionals International has gathered a group of international industry leaders that will make up an Executive Advisory Council charged with exploring challenges and opportunities within the growing global meetings industry.

Lufthansa Launches Italian Airline Brand

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Lufthansa today said it plans to launch Lufthansa Italia, a new Italian airline brand that would use a fleet of Airbus A319 aircraft to serve such European destinations as Paris and Barcelona from Milan as soon as February 2009.

STR: Hotels Rebound In Houston, New Orleans, San Francisco

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Houston, New Orleans and San Francisco have posted the strongest year-over-year hotel occupancy and room revenue increases so far this year, while markets including Phoenix, Boston, Nashville and Virginia's Norfolk-Virginia Beach area have taken the biggest hits, according to data released Tuesday by Smith Travel Research.

EIBTM Eyes Environmental Certification, Adopts British Sustainability Standard

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Hoping to lead by example, United Kingdom-based Reed Travel Exhibitions is planning to make its next event, the European Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition, a green one.

Company Brings 'Objectivity' to Telepresence

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Teliris, a provider of videoconferencing systems, has what it calls the first touch-surface computer and electronic whiteboard for telepresence.

Experient Launches Full-Service Web Tool for Meeting Attendees

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Event management company Experient has introduced a new interactive Web tool that allows meeting planners to engage attendees throughout the pre-planning and onsite experience, enabling improved marketing and effective cost containment.

U.K. To Raise Air Passenger Duty By Distance, Class

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The United Kingdom Treasury Monday said it plans to increase air passenger duty rates by length of haul and class of service on Nov. 1, 2009, instead of its previous per-plane tax proposal.

IRS To Lower 2009 Car Mileage Reimbursement Rate

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Internal Revenue Service on Jan. 1, 2009, will lower its standard mileage rate to 55 cents per mileâ��3.5 cents less than the current rate, which the government raised mid-year amid escalating fuel prices.

ICCA Gives Optimistic Economic Outlook, Reports Record Attendance at 2008 Congress

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA), based in the Netherlands, enjoyed record attendance at its 2008 ICCA Congress, it announced last week.

Airlines Report Steep Decline in Global Business Travel

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The number of passengers flying business- and first-class has dropped significantly this year compared with last, according to new data released last week by the International Air Transport Association, which predicts further hits for the premium air travel market.

Travel Associations Seek Corp. Contracting Clarifications In Oneworld Immunity Request

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The American Society of Travel Agents and the Interactive Travel Services Association have asked the U.S. Department of Transportation to request further information from Oneworld carriers in their bid to gain antitrust immunity. ASTA and ITSA are seeking specific plans from American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia and other Oneworld applicants regarding how they would structure and monitor contracts with corporate clients, distribution suppliers and travel agencies.

Eastern Technology Council Names StarCite 'Top Emerging Technology Company'

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

In recognition of its meetings industry solutions, Philadelphia-based meeting technology provider StarCite Inc. has received the Eastern Technology Council's "Top Emerging Technology Company of 2008" Enterprise Award.

Europe's 'Dinner in the Sky' Makes U.S. Debut in Florida

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

European special events company and concept Dinner in the Sky will hold its first U.S. event Dec. 5-6 at the Seminole Casino in Coconut Creek, Fla.

United To Enable Point-Of-Sale Upgrades Through Sabre

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

United Airlines today said it is working with Sabre to enable the global distribution system's subscribers to upsell economy passengers to the carrier's Economy Plus cabin at the point of sale. United said the option would be available to Sabre-subscribing travel agencies in spring 2009.

ELITeXPO Cargo Systems Joins EPA SmartWay Transport Partnership

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

ELITeXPO Cargo Systems, Inc., a provider of trade show transportation services, announced that it has joined the SmartWay Transport Partnership. The...

etouches Announces Appointment of John Collins as Executive VP of Business Development

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

etouches, a leader in the meetings and event technology market, today announced the appointment of John Collins as Executive Vice President of Busines...

Marketech Launches 'The Exhibitor Experience' Series for Show Management

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

In response to current news regarding a sluggish outlook for travel in 2009 and the possible effects it may have on trade show and event attendance, M...

HCEA Accepting Healthcare Convention and Exhibit Marketing Curriculum Ideas for 2009 Annual Meeting

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

Medical meeting and healthcare convention marketing experts, speakers, industry gurus and others with the expertise and experience to educate healthca...

Elevation Exhibits Makes Olympic Splash

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

Elevation Exhibits, an award-winning exhibit design firm creating practical and lasting visual messaging solutions, today announced the undertaking of...

ACTE Honors Three Industry Leaders as 'Volunteers of the Year'

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) honored three of its members with the title, 'Volunteer of the Year', during the second day of t...

Thinkwell Lands on Los Angeles Business Journal's List of 100 Fastest Growing Private Companies

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

Thinkwell, a creator of experience-based entertainment for theme parks, museums, casinos and retail and resort destinations worldwide, is one of the f...

NEC Receives Frost and Sullivan Customer Value Enhancement Award

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

NEC Display Solutions of America, a stand-alone provider of commercial LCD displays and projectors, today announced it is the recipient of the 2008 Fr...

Laarhoven Design Moves North American Office and Manufacturing Plant

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

Laarhoven Design, a large exhibit and graphics manufacturer, will move its corporate office and manufacturing plant to 4400 Shackleford Road in Norc...

Dolce Hotels Names Steven A. Rudnitsky President and CEO

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Dolce Hotels and Resorts has selected Steven A. Rudnitsky, former CEO of Wyndham Worldwide's Hotel Group, as its new president and CEO, effective Dec. 8.

Travelocity Business Joins Radius Agency Network

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Travelocity Business today announced an agreement to join travel management company network Radius. Travelocity Business is the first of the so-called Internet travel management companies to join such a network in an effort to expand its global presence.

Sabre Signs United To Two-Year Extension Of Content Pact

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Sabre today announced the extension of its distribution pact with United Airlines by two years, moving the expiration date of their "full content" agreement from 2011 to 2013.

ASAE & The Center Approve New, Integrated Board of Directors

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The boards of the American Society of Association Executives and The Center for Association Leadership have approved a new governance structure that will effectively combine the two governing bodies in order to create a more effective, more receptive association.

Gaylord Cancels Convention Hotel Project in Chula Vista, Calif.

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Citing prolonged planning and approval processes, a complicated legal and regulatory structure, and excessive off-site infrastructure costs, Nashville-based Gaylord Entertainment has officially called off its plans to develop a resort and convention hotel in Chula Vista, Calif.

Southwest Intends 14-Slot LaGuardia Purchase, Its First Foray Into NYC

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Southwest Airlines intends to make its first foray into New York City by buying 14 slots at LaGuardia Airport, the carrier announced today, through a $7.5 million acquisition of bankrupt ATA Airlines, a transaction that must be approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Indianapolis.

John Pavek of EXHIBITOR Media Group to Host Educational Panel Discussion at EDPA Annual Conference

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

John Pavek, Vice President of Publishing for EXHIBITOR Media Group, will host a special educational panel discussion on Thursday, December 4, 2008, at...

Exhibit Design Awards Early Deadline Looms

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST

The early-bird deadline for the Exhibit Design Awards - Nov. 24, 2008 - is fast approaching. br brFor all entries received after Nov. 24, the ent...

TIA Applauds Visa Waiver Program Expansion, Expects Economic Benefit

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Washington, D.C.-based Travel Industry Association has released a statement in support of the United States' recently announced expansion of its Visa Waiver Program, which became official yesterday.

AH&LA Extends McInerney's Contract As CEO Through 2011

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The American Hotel & Lodging Association has extended President and CEO Joe McInerney's contract for two years, it announced last week.

Dolce Names Rudnitsky CEO

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Conference center and hospitality company Dolce Hotels and Resorts today announced it has appointed former Wyndham Hotel Group CEO Steven Rudnitsky as its new president and CEO.

DOT Raising Lost Luggage Compensation

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The U.S. Department of Transportation today issued a final rule that raises the minimum amount airlines must compensate for lost baggage to $3,300 from $3,000. DOT said the new rate takes into account consumer price inflation since it last raised the limit in January 2007.

The Plaza Introduces 'Communal Luncheon' Concept as Affordable Holiday Party Alternative

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

To help companies celebrate the season without breaking the bank, New York's iconic hotel, The Plaza, has announced a "shared event" concept that will give them high style at an affordable price.

For MeetDifferent, MPI Plans Economic Themes, Content

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

In advance of its 2009 MeetDifferent conference, Dallas-based Meeting Professionals International has announced an educational program that's focused largely on economic themes and problem solving.

Wyndham Names Danziger CEO

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Wyndham Hotel Group is bringing back a former president as its CEO, the company announced today in naming Eric Danziger. Danziger, who has more than 30 years of hotel industry experience, will take over as Wyndham Hotel Group president and CEO on Dec. 1.

Newsmaker: GetThere EMEA Gets Geall

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

GetThere this month announced the hiring of former Eurostar U.K. head of sales Jason Geall as its director of the Europe, Middle East and Africa division.

TMCs See More Business As Buyers Extend, Expand, Re-Bid

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Executives from some of the largest travel management companies recently told Business Travel News that they have seen a spike in competitive corporate account activity, whether it be to extend, expand or re-bid contracts.

Inside Track: Avis Budget Declines Majority Carey Stake

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Avis Budget Group this month confirmed to Business Travel News that it has declined to increase its stake in chauffeured transportation provider Carey International to 80 percent from 45 percent. Avis Budget had one year to assume the majority stake following its initial $60 million October 2007 investment in Carey.

Consolidator Fares Pique Interest

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Corporate travel buyers are reporting increased interest in consolidator fares, "wholesale" airline inventory often sold at a rate lower than published fares, but their use remains minimal and adoption does not come without some travel management pitfalls, show results of a Business Travel Coalition study released this month.

Profiles In Travel Management: MMC Agency Consolidation Leads To Consultative Role

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Marsh & McLennan this fall implemented a massive travel management company consolidation by reducing its TMC supplier base from 41 agencies to a single provider in little more than a year. After a late September implementation, BCD Travel handles nearly all the New York-based professional services firm's reservations in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, representing 80 percent of its $379 million global travel volume. MMC expects to add Europe by the end of the first quarter of 2009.

WestJet Partners With Oneworld For Corporate Agreements

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

WestJet this month partnered with the Oneworld airline alliance to tailor joint corporate agreements and discounts for Canada-based companies. WestJet, which is the second-largest Canadian carrier after Star Alliance member Air Canada, stressed that it is not officially joining the alliance, and a Oneworld spokesperson said the deal does not include codeshare or interline agreements.

Op-Ed: Visibility: The Smart Way To Cut Travel Costs

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The economy stinks. In this downturn, like others before it, frantic executives are calling for big cuts in travel. BTN recently reported "emergency travel cutbacks" and "travel freezes." The problem: In past recessions, when the economy inevitably cycled back upward, companies that axed travel may have regretted having cut too deep. Building client relationships and courting new customersâ��the reasons that we travelâ��are even more important when times are tough.

Op-Ed: Corp. Travel Needs Data Standards

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Standardization is required to deliver added value to clients and streamline the provision of corporate travel services for the benefit of everyone in the industry.

German Corporate Travelers Lengthen Advance Air Bookings

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

German corporate travelers are booking flights further in advance of departure to take advantage of cheaper fares, especially in business class, according to figures from AirPlus International.

Avion: Prism Data Use By Corporate Clients Grows In Europe

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Fifteen of the largest corporate travel spenders, half based in Europe, have implemented Prism's seven-year-old Avion air data and contract management tool, and five of them have done so in the past two years.