The chains are siding on the side of the localities but they picked the wrong partner in this fight. OTCs create demand locally and help drive table revenue. The chains should be protecting the existing way of doing business and not trying to tax demand creation businesses like OTCc.

The lodging industry has suffered in this weakened economy. Online Travel Companies (OTCs) such as Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity, and others are playing a vital role in boosting room sales in these difficult times. The heads OTCs put in beds often is the difference between profitability or loss for many hotel operators.

OTCs help market hotel rooms to prospective customers all over the world. Independent hotels can’t match large corporate hotel’s marketing war chests, thus they rely heavily on OTCs to compete with branded hotels. Without a robust OTC channel, independent hoteliers will be put at a competitive disadvantage with chain hotels. It’s critical that OTCs not be marginalized as it would diminish the ability of independent hotels to compete effectively.

Hotels, with the help of Online Travel Companies, boost the local economy by supporting jobs and increase tourism. When people travel, many supporting businesses benefit. Every effort must be made to stimulate the economy and job growth. ITTFA will help boost internet hotel sales and get people traveling again.