The Australian travel trade is growing in importance for Innstant Travel with the technology provider anticipating “in excess” of 100% growth from the local market this year.
The company, which launched in Houston, Texas in 2008 has now spread across the globe to countries including Israel, the UK, China and Brazil.
It launched its web-based booking platform in Australia in 2010, with the first few years in market focused on customising its product to suit local needs and strengthening its staff base. But 2014 looks set to be a big growth year, according to chief executive Darryl Ismail.
“We’re gathering momentum,” Ismail told Travel Today. "Australia is an important market for us."
Innstant has adapted its product to be more “client-centric than product-centric” due to the strength of the agency model in Australia as compared with the US where its presence is more consumer-focused. It has also tripled its Australian staff count in 2013 and is now confident that it is well-positioned for growth, with Ismail outlining hefty targets. Anticipated increases of more than 100% both in terms of revenue and bookings will see Australia climb into its top four markets.
Features such as its offer of TripAdvisor reviews cross-referenced with wholesaler reviews give it credibility in the eyes of travel agents, Ismail explained. In addition, the system’s ability to automatically cancel an unconfirmed booking when the cancellation deadline is reached is another drawcard for agents along with 24/7 customer support provided by an international team.
In October, Innstant responded to agent demand by integrating eNett payment capability into its website so transactions using the virtual payment system can be completed as easily as credit card payments.
Although it does not currently offer flights despite having developed technology for a number of low cost carriers, it is looking at adding dynamic packaging “in due course”.
“We have a long-term vision and we want to do it in a controlled and healthy way,” Ismail said.
