Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has launched StarwoodPro, a global programme “that offers travel professionals a differentiated and enhanced experience when conducting business with Starwood”. (9/11/2007)
To initiate the programme, the company has introduced a website StarwoodPro.com. Starwood recognises that travelers are increasingly turning to travel professionals for the personal relationship and for a trusted source of information.
“With the launch of the StarwoodPro website, we at Starwood continue to invest in the increasingly important business relationship with travel professionals, giving them the tools and information they need to compete in a rapidly changing travel landscape,” said Chris Austin, Vice President, Global Customer Partnerships, Leisure and Luxury Sales.
Founded on five pillars – Access, Knowledge, Rewards, Compensation and Communication – StarwoodPro.com establishes a sophisticated, user-friendly interface between Starwood and travel professionals.
The StarwoodPro.com website delivers easily accessible content and information on deals, rates and product information, commissions, sales contacts and comprehensive hotel and brand information. In addition, event details and news about on-going programme enhancements and content development will be available.
Equipped with powerful search and booking tools, the StarwoodPro website gives travel professionals multiple ways to find hotels that will meet their clients’ specifications.
According to Starwood, agents can plug in search criteria including brand, city, hotel amenity and special interests such as skiing or golf. Travel professionals can also check the status of client reservations, research room rates and special offers, and find information on education and marketing programmes. A click to call feature provides instant access to speak with a reservations agent at any time during the process.
“With nine distinct brands and over 850 properties available to the traveler, StarwoodPro simplifies the daunting task of pairing the right clients with the right brands, appropriately identifying what experience will best satisfy their specific needs and desires,” stated the company.
