What:
Virtuoso has announced the launch of Virtuoso Incubator, an innovative program that will bring together network partners to cultivate new technology tools for the industry.
Why It Matters:
Virtuoso Incubator will bridge the travel and tech worlds through its Technology Committee, a board of 17 advisors who will lend insights to companies developing applications meant to serve fellow travel agents and other industry players. Companies currently working with Virtuoso Incubator include Axus, TripScope and Younderbound.
Virtuoso expects 10 or more companies to participate in the program by the end of 2015. Once they have completed the process, companies will be considered for Preferred Supplier status within the Virtuoso network.
Fast Facts:
- Umapped was the first company to complete the program and to become a preferred partner.
- As such, Umapped offers preferential pricing and a complimentary trial period to Virtuoso agents, in addition to Virtuoso-specific content such as negotiated hotel amenities and exclusive products.
What They Are Saying:
“When we discovered that more than $3 billion was invested in travel technology in 2014, we wondered if we could possibly influence this investment to solve critical problems for our members and their advisors,” said David Kolner, senior vice president, consumer for Virtuoso. “Creating the Virtuoso Incubator allows us to help develop and introduce myriad technology options for our members, with the understanding that not one single solution is going to serve the needs of 355 travel agencies across the globe.”
The Details
Virtuosowww.virtuoso.com
