Commerce Conversations

Travel Tech: The New Frontier with Scott DeAngelo (Allegiant)

Episode Summary

Scott DeAngelo is the CMO and long-time payment aficionado at Allegiant. In this episode, Matt and Erika get together with Scott to talk about what’s happening in the industry during a major transition period with COVID trends here to stay and technological advancements making the options broader than before. We get into marketing in a new era of regulation and privacy, changing tides of consumer preferences, and more.

Episode Notes

Scott's Background:

• Transition from payments (Vantiv, now WorldPay ) to travel.
• Six and a half years in the payments industry during a transformative period.
• Met founder of Allegiant, recognized it as a platform company, similar to Amazon, and eventually came on as CMO.

Industry Trends:

• Resurgence in consumers using online travel agencies post-pandemic.
• Airlines seeking additional highly profitable revenue pools.
• Emphasis on sustainability in the travel industry.

Impact of AI:

• AI improves search behavior for consumers.
• Prediction: Within two years, about two-thirds of traditional call center issues handled by generative AI.

Role of Technology:

• Companies like Kevil enabling travel businesses to monetize the audience through ad serving platforms.
• AI transforming search engine optimization (SEO).
• Potential for more relevant and customized bundles for consumers.

Focus on OTA (Online Travel Agencies):

• Discussion on the battle for checkout between direct sellers and OTA providers.
• Allegiant's decision to stay off OTA and the reasons behind it.
• Pros and cons of choosing to sell only direct to consumers.

Technology in Travel:

• Most promising aspect of technology: Solutions addressing the challenge of purpose-built systems in the travel industry.
• Overhyped aspect: Emphasis on creature comforts like onboard entertainment, which may not be significant for leisure travelers willing to pay a premium.

Closing Thoughts:

• Acknowledgment of the exciting time for travel tech.
• Recognition of Allegiant's position to leverage trends in the industry.
• Appreciation for sharing insights on the travel industry.
• Insightful discussion on technology, AI, and their role in shaping the future of the travel industry.

Find Scott on Linkedin.