WRAP: GDSs Defend Pricing, 'Preferencing' At HEDNA

Pending price increases for the display of hotel inventory and rates through global distribution systems are raising questions about the lodging industry's commitment to the GDS channel, according to Hospitality Technology Consulting president John Burns. GDS managers speaking yesterday argued that their channel's value for hotels is on the rise, partly because of new "preferencing" programs that promote brands and properties in GDS displays.