Rising OTA Commissions Push Hotels Toward Direct Bookings

Rising OTA Commissions Push Hotels Toward Direct Bookings

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 4, 2025

For years, online travel agencies (OTAs) have dominated the hotel booking industry, controlling pricing, customer data, and charging commissions as high as 40%. However, hotels are now reducing their reliance on OTAs and embracing direct distribution channels to regain control and build stronger guest relationships.

With the rise of new technology, evolving consumer behavior, and regulatory shifts, the hospitality industry is set to redefine its distribution model. The future of hotel bookings lies in a balanced, guest-centric approach that prioritizes direct bookings, personalization, and innovation.

Key Industry Shifts

Healthier Channel Mix

  • Rising OTA commissions have made direct bookings a priority.

  • By 2030, direct digital bookings are expected to surpass OTAs, generating over $400 billion in revenue.

Personalization & Differentiation

  • Travelers are seeking more customized experiences, shifting focus from generic stays to experiential travel.

  • AI and data analytics are enabling hyper-personalized guest journeys and targeted marketing.

  • Loyalty programs are evolving beyond traditional point systems to offer personalized rewards based on guest preferences.

Customer-First Approach

  • OTAs often prioritize hotels that pay higher commissions, which limits true consumer choice.

  • Regulatory measures like the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) are pushing for fairer distribution ecosystems by promoting transparency and competition.

End of Rate Parity Clauses

  • Legal rulings, including the EU Court of Justice decision, now allow hotels to set their own rates.

  • Hotels must invest in direct booking strategies using advanced pricing models and competitive technology.

Rise of Mobile Bookings

  • Over 50% of hotel bookings now come from mobile devices, making mobile-first design a necessity.

  • Previously, only OTAs and major hotel chains leveraged mobile apps, but new disruptive platforms are emerging to bridge this gap.

AI’s Role in Hotel Distribution

  • AI-powered tools such as chatbots, price optimization software, and personalized marketing solutions are driving direct bookings.

  • AI-driven platforms like D3X.ai and Allora.ai are already transforming the industry with intelligent booking systems and automated guest engagement.

The Future of Hotel Distribution

With hotels regaining control over pricing, data, and guest relationships, the industry is moving toward a more transparent, guest-friendly ecosystem. Direct booking strategies, AI-driven personalization, and mobile-first innovations will define the future of hotel distribution, ensuring a more sustainable and competitive marketplace.


Athulya Senior Care Inaugurates Third Senior Care Facility in Bengaluru

Athulya Senior Care Inaugurates Third Senior Care Facility in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 14, 2026

Athulya Senior Care has inaugurated its third senior care facility in Bengaluru at Mathikere, further strengthening its presence and commitment to building a comprehensive senior care ecosystem in the city.

U.T. Khader, Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, inaugurated the new facility in the presence of healthcare professionals, senior citizens, partners and members of the Athulya family. Athulya Senior Care also acknowledged the support of Raksha Ramaiah and the MSR Infrastructure team for their partnership in developing the new facility. The purpose-built centre has been designed around the specific needs of seniors, bringing care, comfort, rehabilitation and dignity together under one roof.

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Located in Mathikere, one of Bengaluru's premium residential neighbourhoods, the new geriatric care centre has been developed exclusively for senior citizens. It offers a range of services aimed at supporting seniors through different stages of care while also promoting active ageing and overall wellbeing.

The facility features 75 suite rooms, well-appointed living spaces and dedicated rehabilitation zones. It also includes technology-enabled physiotherapy services with virtual reality-based rehabilitation, specialised memory care infrastructure, emergency medical support, nutritious diet management and recreational spaces.

With the new centre, Athulya Senior Care now has 13 facilities live across India, including three centres in Bengaluru. The organisation has also crossed 300+ dedicated senior care beds in Bengaluru, expanding access to specialised geriatric care in the city. The new facility adds to Athulya's wider network of senior care services, with 1500 beds across India. Its expansion reflects the growing need for dedicated senior care spaces that combine medical support with rehabilitation, comfort and everyday wellbeing.

With 1500 beds across India and 300+ beds in Bengaluru, Athulya Senior Care continues to work towards one shared commitment, enabling seniors to age with dignity, independence and purpose.


ICAI to Support TTD in Strengthening Accounting and Financial Management Systems

ICAI to Support TTD in Strengthening Accounting and Financial Management Systems

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 11, 2026

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) held the 16th Meeting of its Strategy and Perspective Planning and Monitoring Committee at Tirupati on August 5, 2026, reaffirming its focus on supporting public institutions through professional expertise and research.

As part of the initiative, the ICAI Accounting Research Foundation (ICAI ARF) will conduct a detailed research study and prepare a project report to develop a stronger framework for the accounting and audit systems of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The proposed work will focus on strengthening the existing systems and bringing accounting and financial management practices in line with current requirements.

During the visit, Sri Muddada Ravichandra, IAS, Executive Officer, TTD, met with the Central Council Members of ICAI. The discussions covered areas of collaboration between ICAI and TTD, including accounting reforms, financial reporting and governance. The Central Council Members also shared suggestions on expanding the partnership into other areas.

Speaking on the occasion, CA. Prasanna Kumar D, President, ICAI, said, "ICAI is collaborating with TTD in reviewing and updating the Accounting Manual of TTD, including the Chart of Accounts, to align it with the prevailing Accounting Standards and global best practices. The initiative will also focus on integrating ERP-based accounting processes to ensure uniformity and strengthen financial management systems across all institutions under TTD."

Appreciating the initiative, Sri Muddada Ravichandra, IAS, Executive Officer, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), stated, "We appreciate ICAI for extending its support to TTD in strengthening our accounting and financial management systems."

The collaboration reflects ICAI's continued efforts to support public institutions through professional expertise, research-based inputs and the use of best practices in accounting, auditing and financial management. The initiative is expected to help TTD develop a modern and stronger financial management framework, while aligning its systems with contemporary accounting standards and governance requirements.


Longines Opens Third Boutique in Bengaluru with Sara Ali Khan

Longines Opens Third Boutique in Bengaluru with Sara Ali Khan

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 11, 2026

Swiss watch brand Longines has opened its third boutique in Bengaluru at Phoenix Market City, marking another step in its presence in the city. The boutique was inaugurated by Longines Friend of the Brand Sara Ali Khan.

Following the inauguration, Sara Ali Khan also visited the brand’s boutique at Phoenix Mall of Asia, enjoying an outing with Longines in a relaxed vacation mode setting.

Speaking at the event, Sara said, “Given the fact that this is Longines third store in Bengaluru speaks volumes about the loyalty of its customers in this city. I hope this success story is replicated everywhere in India.” She further added, “Longines quietly marks every moment with effortless joy and elegance, that’s what makes it unique.”

For the season, Longines is presenting a selection of its latest releases across different collections. The range includes the refined PrimaLuna, versatile Conquest, seaside-inspired HydroConquest, and the exploratory Longines Legend Diver, offering timepieces designed for different settings, from busy city days to relaxed beach escapes.

The new boutiques reflect the brand’s wider universe and showcase its latest product range. Visitors can explore the refined shapes of PrimaLuna and DolceVita, the sporty HydroConquest, as well as the watchmaking tradition represented by the Longines Master Collection and heritage timepieces.

With its third boutique in Bengaluru, Longines continues to strengthen its presence in the city while bringing its latest collections closer to its customers.

Addresses:

  • Address: Longines Boutiques - Ground Floor, Phoenix Market City, Bengaluru / First Floor, Mall of Asia, Bengaluru / First Floor, UB City, Bengaluru.

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