The travel industry is undergoing seismic change, according to leading authority on travel research and events, Phocuswright. A new era of technologies, empowered consumers and emerging players are redefining the way we travel, book travel and interact with the industry. Phocuswright will address these disruptive forces head-on at the Phocuswright Conference, titled “The New Age(nts),” taking place November 19-21 at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Arizona.
“The New Age(nts)” has been designed to be more than just a theme – a call to action for the travel industry to adapt and evolve. Through a programme of keynotes, panels and thought leadership sessions, the conference will examine four key areas of transformation:
A new era: Google’s dominance at the top of the funnel is being challenged by social platforms like TikTok and Instagram, while AI-powered conversational search offers personalized travel recommendations. Airlines are leveraging NDCs to regain control of distribution, potentially setting a precedent for hotels to follow suit. Non-traditional players, such as large retailers and financial institutions, are also coming into play, redefining the online travel agency landscape.
Customers are in control: Self-sovereign identity, personal data vaults, and secure digital wallets empower consumers to own their data and decide who to share it with. Travel companies must adapt to this new reality and build trust with consumers to access their profiles and wallets.
Emerging Agents: Intelligent agents are already increasing travel planning and personalization, streamlining tasks for travelers and offering efficiencies to businesses. These tools are not a distant future, but are transforming the travel industry.
Durable agents? As travelers become more empowered and new tools automate tasks, traditional travel agencies must evolve. By embracing technology and delivering an experience that AI can’t replicate, expert travel advisors can find new ways to thrive in this changing landscape.
“We often cover topics that disrupt and reshape the travel industry,” said Eugene Ko, Director of Marketing and Communications at Phocuswright. “But this time it’s more than that. New game changers are emerging and a new era of travel is upon us. Travel distribution is being upended as new players and paradigms exert their influence, and the fight for control of content, the customer and their loyalty reaches a new level of intensity. The “new era(s)” of change – a diverse group of technology disruptors, non-traditional players, empowered consumers and influencers – are more than a trend – they are a tidal wave that is reshaping the travel landscape. This year’s Phocuswright Conference promises a deep dive into this evolving ecosystem where players must evolve or be swept away.”
Source: Phocuswright.