Expedia Group CEO Ariane Gorin discussed the impact of the company’s recent tech migration at the Skift Global Forum, noting that some of its brands experienced setbacks. Despite this, Expedia saw growth in room nights and Gorin is now focusing on increasing customers for Vrbo. The tech migration is expected to facilitate inventory sharing between Vrbo and other Expedia Group brands, and the company has been implementing new features such as comparison shopping and group trip planning.
JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty shared her challenges during her nine months in the role at the Skift Global Forum, including the frustration caused by grounding several aircraft due to issues with Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engines. She also mentioned that there are no plans for mergers after the federal government blocked JetBlue’s acquisition of Spirit Airlines. JetBlue is set to open its first-ever lounges at its New York and Boston hubs as part of its strategy to attract more premium travelers while maintaining its position as a low-cost airline with a premier segment.
MGM Resorts is working on building its own version of the “Dubai Sphere,” a project that CEO Bill Hornbuckle believes will be as attractive as the Las Vegas Sphere. The $2 billion project, which has been in development since 2017, will feature a mini showroom with 300 seats. While the Dubai Sphere will be smaller than its Las Vegas counterpart, it will include all the typical features of such a venue. Initially planned to be part of an entertainment tower, the Dubai Sphere will be located in a complex with three MGM Resorts brands.
This podcast episode highlights the current focus areas and challenges facing major players in the travel industry. Expedia Group’s emphasis on improving Vrbo and enhancing the user experience through technological advancements is a key priority for the company. JetBlue’s efforts to attract premium travelers while maintaining its low-cost model reflect the ongoing competition within the airline industry. MGM Resorts’ ambitious project in Dubai showcases the company’s commitment to expanding its global presence and offering unique entertainment experiences.
As the travel industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological developments, companies like Expedia Group, JetBlue, and MGM Resorts are seeking innovative ways to stay competitive and attract customers. The discussions at the Skift Global Forum offer insights into the strategies and challenges facing these industry leaders as they navigate a rapidly changing landscape. The future success of these companies will depend on their ability to leverage technology, address operational challenges, and adapt to the evolving demands of travelers worldwide.
