In a decision that benefits both the customer and the hotel, Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has begun offering its over 400 properties in 65 countries a two-way interface solution between the individual hotel/s own  PMS system and the SLH Central Reservation System via Trust International/s ¡TrustConnect solution¢ using Serenata Intraware technology. SLH is the first group of independent hotels to offer such a powerful benefit to properties in order to create a seamless flow of information ensuring rate parity, true last room availability and single image inventory.

Prior to the implementation of a two-way interface between Trust/s Voyager CRS and hotels/ front office system, hotels had to manage two systems in which they loaded rates, stored guest data and managed availability essentially twice. Not only does managing two systems cost a significant amount of time and money, it can lead to inconsistent room rates and inventory availability, causing guests to see varying rates in multiple locations or even book a room that does not exist. The TrustConnect solution now offered by Small Luxury Hotels of the World solves those problems. By creating a seamless two-way flow of availability and real time bookings, hotels can ensure rate parity, eliminate overbooking and reduce labour costs, all of which lead to increased yield and maximization of revenue. Industry reports estimate a 5-7% increase in revenue once an interface is in place.

“We are dedicated to developing strategies that maximize revenue for our hotels and improve the customer experience,” commented Paul Kerr, Joint Managing Director of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. “Offering Trust¢s two-way interface solution is the perfect tool to do just that.”

“SLH is truly helping the hotels to manage their inventory and generate more business in this fast-paced distribution world.” says Richard Wiegmann, COO of Trust International by Travelport. "Connecting to the distribution channels directly via TrustConnect is a true advantage in this competitive marketplace and we are glad to be able to help SLH and the hotels in make using of it.” he added.

SLH has started the process of testing the interface in about a dozen properties with another dozen ready to go on the heels of the first round/s success. By the end of Q2 2007, the brand expects to have roughly 40 properties up and running using TrustConnect. Hotels that are currently using the interface include two award-winning properties, La Casa Que Canta in Mexico and Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain in Arizona.