RIVALS EXPEDIA AND TRAVELOCITY INK STRATEGIC MARKETING AGREEMENT

Longtime online rivals Expedia, Inc., and Travelocity have announced an exclusive, longterm strategic marketing agreement. Under the deal Expedia will power the technology platforms for Travelocity’s existing web sites in the US and Canada, while providing Travelocity access to Expedia, Inc.’s supply and customer services.

The agreement means Travelocity will focus on promoting its brand and marketing a broad offering of travel services and supply. Travelocity will remain wholly-owned by Sabre Holdings Corporation, and independent of Expedia, Inc. Travelocity-owned lastminute. com in Europe and the Travelocity Partner Network are not included in this marketing arrangement.

“Over the years, Travelocity has become one of the most recognized travel brands in the US and Canada,”said Expedia, Inc. CEO Dara Khosrowshahi. “Going forward, this agreement will enable Travelocity to focus on further building its brand while at the same time providing consumers with an enhanced suite of travel products and services.”

According to Carl Sparks, president and CEO of Travelocity Global, Travelocity has elected “to evolve and strengthen our business model in the US and Canada by working with Expedia, Inc. to offer a top-notch booking platform and a more robust supply of travel options, allowing us to focus increased resources on building our competitive strengths in marketing and retailing.”

Both parties plan to begin development and implementation immediately, with an expected launch in 2014.