Hilton Gears Up to Offer Full Booking Capability in Chinese Language by 2008

Hilton introduced a pilot Chinese website, hilton.com.cn, in July this year. The company expects full booking capability in Chinese language to get completed by 2008.

The process of setting up such source markets websites involves two crucial aspects, according to Philippe Garnier, director - commercial development, Hilton International.

Hilton´s priority is to distribute its product directly, primarily through its brand websites. To complement the brand websites” reach, Hilton has put a framework in place to contract with third parties who add value to the brand.

Since 2003 source market websites have been developed with localized content and booking process for the UK, German, Japanese and Nordic markets.

Other than localized online initiative, Hilton has also teamed up with key domestic distribution partners. Hilton has published a list of criteria to assess the added value of a distributor: they range from business model, to compensation level, to connected access to Hilton´s inventory etc.