Expedia to ‘Power’ Travelocity Starting in 2014

Expedia Inc. will power the technology platforms for Travelocity’s existing websites in the U.S. and Canada under a new “exclusive” long-term strategic marketing agreement.

Travelocity will remain wholly owned by Sabre Holdings Corp. and will be independent of Expedia.

Travelocity will have access to Expedia Inc.’s supply and customer services.

Upon implementation of the agreement, expected in 2014, Travelocity will focus its efforts on promoting its brand and marketing “the broad offering of travel services and supply made available through this agreement.”

Lastminute.com in Europe, owned by Travelocity, and the Travelocity Partner Network are not included in the marketing arrangement.

Preparing for IPO?
There has been considerable speculation as to what is next for Travelocity as its parent, Sabre Holdings, eyes an initial public offering.

Last week, Sam Gilliland stepped down as chief executive officer of Sabre Holdings. Gilliland, a former chief executive of Travelocity, has stated in the past that he considered Travelocity core to Sabre Holding’s business.

Last December, Travelocity sold Zuji, its website for the Asia-Pacific market, to Australia’s Webjet.com. In June, Travelocity Business was sold to BCD Travel.