Dida expands direct European hotel contracting team

Dida is expanding its European hotel contracting team as part of a commitment to supporting the UK trade.

The Chinese B2B travel distributor is growing the number of direct contractors “five-fold” this year but declined to specify numbers.

The aim is to secure the most in-demand city break and beach destination properties across the continent for its network of agents, tour operators and OTAs worldwide.

The move “significantly strengthens” Dida’s presence across Europe, complementing its hotel coverage in Asia Pacific.

The UK is seen as a key focus, with year on year bookings doubling as the company continues to add more agencies and operators nationwide. 

Dida hopes UK travel sellers gain access to the most competitive rates and desirable properties across both short-haul and long-haul destinations via the new wave of direct contracting.

UK sales director Paul Riches said: “This is fantastic news for the UK travel market. Our agency and tour operator partners are demanding a broader and deeper hotel portfolio across both European short-haul favourites and long-haul destinations worldwide. 

“By multiplying our European contracting team five-fold, Dida is making sure UK partners have access to the very best properties, the best availability, and the most competitive rates. 

“Combined with our global strength across Asia Pacific, this positions Dida as the go-to distribution partner for UK travel partners looking to deliver more choice and value to their customers.”