Global Distribution System

A Global Distribution System (GDS) is a powerful network that connects hotels, airlines, car rental companies and travel agencies on a single platform, making it easier to distribute and book travel services worldwide. For hotels, GDS platforms act as digital bridges, linking room inventory with travel agents and online booking platforms in real-time.

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Being listed on a GDS is the first step for hoteliers interested in expanding their reach and increasing visibility across global markets. Think of it as a marketplace where your hotel’s availability, rates and packages are available for thousands of travel professionals to view and book instantly.

What is GDS in Hospitality?

In the hospitality industry, a GDS is a type of centralized reservation system used by travel agents and large booking platforms to access real-time hotel data such as rates, availability and room types. It's especially useful for hotels that want to appeal to corporate clients or high-volume travel agencies.

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Unlike Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) that market directly to consumers, GDS platforms connect directly with travel professionals, making them a strategic channel for B2B hotel distribution.

How a GDS Helps Hotels Secure Bookings

For hotels looking to boost occupancy and revenue, a GDS can help. It’s an especially useful system for boutique hotels and independent brands interested in being more globally competitive. Here's how:

 
• Provide broader reach: GDS networks connect your property to thousands of travel agents across the globe.
 
• Higher-value bookings: Reports show that 80% of business travel is done through GDS systems, and business travel usually results in longer stays and higher ADRs (Average Daily Rates).
 
• Real-time updates: Inventory and rates update across all connected channels at once, reducing manual work and overbooking risks.

How Does a GDS Work?

Getting your hotel on a GDS is a simple process that can drastically improve your property’s visibility: Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:

 
1. Your hotel connects its Property Management System (PMS) to a GDS provider.
 
2. Room availability, pricing and restrictions are automatically synced with the GDS.
 
3. Travel agents and corporate booking tools search the GDS for accommodations based on client needs.
 
4. A booking is made, and the reservation is automatically synced with the hotel’s system.

Key Benefits of a GDS for Hoteliers

Hotels gain more visibility when they’re on a GDS, but more bookings aren’t the only benefit you can expect to see! Here are a few key benefits:

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Easier access to new markets. In areas of the world where you may not have a brand presence, a GDS allows you to be visible to new travelers.

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Lower cost per booking. While there are still third-party fees associated with GDS bookings, they’re usually less expensive than OTA reservations.

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Better revenue performance. Because GDS bookings are associated primarily with corporate and extended stays, these reservations tend to have higher RevPAR and GOPPAR.

GDS vs OTA: What’s the Difference?

While both GDS and OTAs distribute hotel inventory and help generate more bookings, they serve different audiences. Using both in tandem can help hotels balance volume and profitability.

Beyond Booking: Streamlining the Guest Journey

Just as a GDS serves to streamline bookings, Canary’s suite of software solutions streamline the remainder of the guest journey. From pre-arrival to post-stay, hotels can elevate every aspect of their touchpoints with guests, no matter where the booking originated. Explore how Canary’s solutions add efficiency to hotel operations by booking a demo today.