Hilton Partners With Navan for Direct Corporate Travel Bookings

Hilton announced a direct booking integration with Navan, a corporate travel management platform, on November 15, 2023. This partnership bypasses traditional distribution channels, allowing corporate travelers to book Hilton properties directly through Navan's platform. The move is intended to give Hilton more direct control over its retail operations and customer relationships within the corporate travel sector.

This integration is part of a larger strategy by Hilton to enhance its offerings for business travelers. By establishing a direct connection, Hilton aims to improve the booking experience, potentially offer more tailored rates, and gain deeper insights into corporate spending patterns. Navan, formerly TripActions, has been actively expanding its partnerships to provide a more comprehensive travel solution for businesses.

The collaboration signifies a shift in how hotel companies are approaching corporate travel distribution. Traditionally, bookings from corporate clients often flowed through global distribution systems (GDS) or travel management companies (TMCs). This direct link with Navan allows Hilton to capture more value and potentially reduce distribution costs. It also enables Hilton to manage inventory and pricing more effectively for this important segment.

Hilton's executive team has expressed optimism about the potential of this partnership to redefine corporate travel bookings. The company anticipates that this direct channel will lead to increased loyalty and a more personalized service for business travelers. Navan also stands to benefit by offering its clients seamless access to Hilton's extensive portfolio of hotels worldwide.