ABC Global Services News

ABC Premier Block Space—What's it all about?

hawk3ye — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:00:00 GMT

UpFront: From ABC's President & COO

Long before ABC Global Services was founded, there was a TV game show, “To Tell the Truth.” The premise of this original American program that aired 1956-1968, was to identify a person/character known for having a unique occupation or specialty. This person sat on a panel, flanked by imposters set up to stump celebrity players. Following a series of creative questions and tactics to confuse the players, the host asked, “Will the REAL _______ please stand up?” And the truth was unveiled.

I liken the ABC Premier Block Space Program to the character on this show. For more than 20 years, our program has functioned successfully meeting the needs of generations of travelers, often challenged by imposters. The ABC Premier Block Space Program has stood up for travelers in need over the years and is still standing.

You may ask, “What makes the ABC Premier Block Space Program the REAL block space program?” For starters, in sold out situations the program provides quality hotel rooms, usually at the ABC rate in the locations your travelers need – not 30 miles away. ABC Premier Block Space includes ABC Premier Perks - the valueadded amenities your travelers count on and peace of mind for the travel arranger. When ABC customers are booking hotels for clients, and learn that a preferred property is sold out, (often due to a large convention, sporting event, or concert), they reach out to the ABC Premier Desk—online, via email or by telephone (their preference). One hundred percent customer-focused, our full-time Premier Desk agents secure and confirm rooms when few others can. Please see page 4 to meet our Premier Desk professionals who offer the human touch (“live”support – highly valued and nonexistent for the most part these days). Through ABC’s buying power, industry clout and reputation we negotiate these inventory blocks at select properties in the key high demand markets you need. And, since ABC manages this inventory, exclusively available to ABC customers, we ensure optimum allocation and availability when you need it.

ABC customers receive commissions on block space bookings and become highly valued resources for their clients based on Premier Block Space. Our customers have reported clinching large corporate accounts due to ABC Block Space securing rooms in sold out cities for executives. One customer shared the following with us recently, “ABC Block Space has come to our rescue countless times when hotels were sold out. The program is easy to use and includes a support desk with live agents! Moreover, the program aligns travelers and agencies with participating hotels, building brand and hotel loyalty, and repeat business.

We understand other block space programs offer thousands of hotels. We urge you to read the small print for restrictions and check your travelers’ needs. ABC appreciates the need for diversity in booking options and offers such options through the ABC Premier Hotel Program with its derivatives including Premier Privileges by ABC and EZ Book by ABC, as well as new programs always under development. Watch your email for exciting announcements in early 2012.

In closing, recently I have fielded many questions about this subject and wanted to make sure you, our valued customers realize the difference between ABC Premier Block Space and others. Remember - the ABC Premier Block Space Program offers you hotels in the markets and locations convenient for your travelers with amenities and appropriate room types that meet their individual needs and bottom line. Supported by live customer service, we continue to be your solution while providing an ongoing channel of business for hoteliers worldwide! The ABC Premier Block Space Program IS STILL STANDING…AND STANDING TALL!

Should you have any questions about ABC Premier Block Space, please contact me (bpatterson@abcglobal.travel / +1.312.462.1977) or Key Account Management (kam@abcglobal.travel / +1.312.462.1965). On behalf of everyone at ABC Global Services, I wish you a happy, healthy and safe Holiday Season and prosperous New Year!

Best regards,

Beverlee S. Patterson
President & COO

ABC Global Services Partners with PhoCusWright on Business Traveler Report

hawk3ye — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:51:00 GMT

Understanding Today’s Business Traveler — The Managed, The Unmanaged and The Rogue

Have you wondered what your business travelers are thinking regarding travel? What drives and impacts their choices and booking habits?

This summer, ABC Global Services sponsored and helped shape a study conducted by travel market research company PhoCusWright that sheds light on these questions, and more. Through a comprehensive quantitative survey of U.S. adults who have taken business trips over the previous 12 months, the study’s primary goal was to provide insights about the needs, behavior, intentions and drivers of today’s business travelers across a range of demographics.

The study examined travelers in three main categories: 1) part of managed travel programs, 2) non-managed travelers, and 3) rogue (essentially part of a managed program but out of compliance). It reports on the findings with actionable recommendations for travel services organizations. Influencers considered in the study include use of social media, online meetings, different attitudes affecting business vs. leisure bookings, frustrations with managed programs, and mobile phone usage. Key findings of this review that will become a future White Paper include:

The majority of business travelers are unmanaged (do not have an established travel policy).
Of those employed by large companies (5,000-plus employees), one-third do not have managed programs.
91 percent of business travelers are actively involved in booking their travel versus a coordinator, etc.
The booking channel or “how travelers book trips” (via a traditional travel agency, OTA or direct online) is the most tightly managed aspect of travel today and the policy area travelers adhere to most.
Travelers are least compliant with regard to hotel bookings.
The priorities and patterns of all business travelers (managed or unmanaged) are fairly universal except that unmanaged travelers tend to mix business with leisure in greater numbers.
According to 45 percent of travelers surveyed, virtual business meeting options such as Skype, Webinars, etc., have somewhat, substantially or dramatically replaced the need for business travel.
Of the non-compliant or “rogue” crowd —they universally cite convenience and price as reasons for non-compliance, although insist that they have their company’s best interest at heart.
Twice as many managed travelers typically book travel via online options (37 percent) rather than calling their preferred agency (17 percent). (Note: These are web booking tools provided by the company or travel agent rather than an OTA, airline or hotel Web site.)
Three out of four business travelers access the Internet via mobile phones, with the top three mobile activities being: 1) getting directions/mapping info, 2) local activity research, and 3) destination research.

Over the next few months you will read more about this study, directly from ABC Global Services, PhoCusWright and the media. There is much actionable information it provides that we can all respond to in support of the business travelers we serve and our businesses at large.

In the meantime, should you have specific questions about this study and report, please contact your ABC Key Account Manager at kam@abcglobal.travel, or call 1.800.722.5179 / +1.312.462.1965.

The ABC Premier Hotel Program—Key to Continued Success of Our Industry

hawk3ye — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:44:00 GMT

By David Anderson, Vice President, Hotel and Supplier Relations

Amidst years of chatter and speculation about the future of travel agents, we know the sector continues to strengthen, and utilizing a host of new technologies at our disposal, travel agents thrive and grow. I appreciated the September 2 report on ABC News’ Nightline show entitled “Travel Agencies Flying High.” The segment dispelled myths of travel agents as dinosaurs, and rather, highlighted agents as highly skilled consultative experts sought after for their destination knowledge and comprehensive insight on all facets of travel, saving travelers and corporations time and money.

It seems everyone has a story about a client who says something like “now I know why you guys are so valuable, I don’t know what I would have done if you were not there for me when I was planning this complicated and unique trip.” It was good to hear it on national TV!

In September I also enjoyed reading the piece, “Hotels Renew Interest in Agents Citing Healthy Yields,” in the Travelmarket Report. The article talks to the important sales channel travel agencies represent for hotel chains worldwide with “better quality bookings overall” when compared to alternative sources. Industry research and intelligence authority PhoCusWright reported revenues from agencies up 10% in 2010 over 2009, and expects increases for 2011. Various hotel executives noted consistent growth over the last several months across brands from travel agents.

Specifically, agents are recognized for providing higher average daily rates (ADR) and longer stays than other channels, especially for business travel. While booked on a property direct level, leisure bookings from travel agents in the form of groups such as family reunions and weddings are delivering big for hotels as well. Acknowledgement by the media about the importance and value of travel agencies overall, as well as their significant contribution to the hotel marketplace is not only positive news but it creates opportunities for all of us. I would be remiss if I did not mention that as part of this dynamic, the ABC Premier Hotel Program (including Premier Privileges by ABC and EZ Book by ABC) plays a key function in the distribution and sales channel that we all (agents and hotels) benefit from.

Our 2012 ABC Premier Hotel Program will be the best ever—with more inventory and choices in product type and price point—and covering all major markets worldwide, including developing regions. Plus with our flexible booking options, via GDS and online with EZBook by ABC, the ABC Premier Hotel Program continues to meet the unique culture and needs of all agencies, including the growing home-based sector.

For more information on how the ABC Premier Hotel Program can help your agency be more successful, today and into the future, contact your ABC Key Account Manager at kam@abcglobal.travel or call 1.800.722.5179 / +1.312.462.1965.

Whatever the Method – ABC Connects with You!

hawk3ye — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:09:44 GMT

UpFront: From ABC's President & COO

Years back when I took the helm as President and COO of ABC Global Services, I made a commitment to create a fluid entrepreneurial organization that was truly connected with its customer base. I undertook the challenge that I or someone from ABC would visit and be in touch with every ABC customer, at home or abroad.

My goal was simple: for ABC to meet and interact with you and your teams, and understand your company and clients’ needs. Further, I wanted to make sure that your organization understood how to access ABC’s products and tools to make your jobs more efficient and successful. Ultimately, I wanted to make certain that ABC was consistently providing the solutions to meet and exceed your company’s unique needs and those of your clients. Over the years through online and live meetings, including UpClose with ABC Global Services™, we have upheld my commitment. With customers located at more than 7,000 locations throughout the world, the task could be daunting were it not for our employees who are dedicated to this goal.

While ABC and our industry at large has changed and developed since my initial pledge, it remains alive and well in 2011. It is a principal guiding force supporting our mission and how we do business. Recently we created a team of professionals entrusted with this agenda: ABC’s Key Account Management (KAM) group. Key Account Management Makes it Happen. ABC’s Key Account Management department (see p. 3 for details), is your lifeline to, and liaison with, ABC. As your dedicated representatives, they are ABC’s channel allowing us to interface with you regularly. Experienced industry professionals, they utilize every opportunity and technique at their disposal—live or electronic—to ensure we are on track and meeting your needs, especially as changes occur and new needs surface. This talented group gives me more confidence each day that we are fulfilling my past goal as well as today’s new objectives, and that we are equipped to continue to do so into the future.

Virtual and Live. Technology—whether email, webcast, mobile applications, instant messaging or conference calls—has become essential to business today, allowing for quick, efficient communication. In addition, it has contributed to the growth of the virtual office. Most of us agree that there is tremendous value in being “present in person” with our customers as well. In fact, results of a study published in B-to-B Magazine bears this out. Conducted by Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration and Maritz, the study appeared in a joint white paper, “The Future of Meetings – The Case for Face-to-Face.” It cited three reasons live events continue to be essential to business success:

In-person events are better suited for capturing attendees attention
Live events inspire positive emotions especially about the producers of the event and
Face-to-face meetings build networks and relationships

The study noted that in a virtual meeting environment, people tend to multitask and filter things out more readily, rather than focusing almost exclusively on the person(s) with whom they are interacting.

At ABC Global Services, we balance virtual communication with traditional live meetings, understanding that both have their place in how we achieve business success and maintain long-term partnerships. If you have not seen or heard from anyone at ABC recently, please reach out to me (bpatterson@abcglobal.travel / +1.312.462.1977) or Key Account Management (kam@abcglobal.travel / +1.312.462.1965), so we can help fulfill our goals.

On behalf of all of us at ABC Global Services, I look forward to optimizing all these methods, and those that have yet to emerge, in strengthening our partnerships and mutual business success. As we move into the year’s fourth quarter, I wish you continued prosperity and thank you for your business!

Best regards,

Beverlee S. Patterson
President & COO

Travel Is Rebounding

hawk3ye — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 14:46:01 GMT

UpFront: From ABC's President & COO

Consumer and travel industry reports are in: TRAVEL IS BACK! You can witness it first hand: fuller flights (both the front and back cabins), higher fares and hotel rates inching up. Perhaps too, you have observed a loosening of your clients’ purse strings and heightened bookings. This, and news about the return of the travel agent as an often overlooked option in an online world, bodes well for us all. Articles cite the growing popularity of travel agents to navigate the myriad of travel information, channels and schedules to provide the best options to meet customer need. More importantly, travelers are seeking true destination experts, called upon for knowledge and unique insight that would take untold hours to discover online, if available at all.

Highlights of Industry Reports:

Hoteliers Confidence Grows – Rates Rising. Positive earnings reports from industry leaders such as InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Starwood and Hyatt, resulting from an uptick in their transient business, signal an optimistic outlook and higher rates industrywide. ABC Global Services can continue to support you and your clients as the dynamics swing back to a seller’s market—see our Top 10 Reasons to ALWAYS BOOK ABC.

Clients are Traveling. On the corporate side, from mid-level managers to CEOs, business travel is on the rise. Businesses have once again recognized the need to meet with customers in person, closing important deals and creating opportunities lost during the height of the recession. Leisure travelers are traveling as well, finally taking that trip they held off on in 2008 and 2009. Consider Premier Privileges by ABC™, a new luxury hotel program offering personal VIP service and valuable amenities that is now part of the ABC Premier Hotel Program.

Agents are Back in Fashion. The travel agent sector has transformed itself over the last several years. Agents have morphed to meet market demand and today offer new service models and options, and a new breed of home-based agents has emerged. Regardless of the set up, travel agents are celebrating a comeback. Corporations value their travel management companies who support their corporate directives, cost-savings and policy compliance goals. Leisure travel news indicates that travelers have tired of the time-consuming process of researching and booking trips online. Whether a business traveler or vacationer, travelers need specialists who can not only provide great rates, sort through restrictions, ancillary fees, and taxes; but provide in-depth and often first-hand destination information, and assistance.

So as we gear up for a brighter future marked by filled flights, increased transactions and new opportunities, remember that ABC Global Services has solutions to make your job easier and meet your clients’ ever-changing needs. Contact your ABC Key Account Manager at kam@abcglobal.travel / +1.312.462.1965 should you have questions about any ABC product or service.

On behalf of everyone at ABC Global Services, I wish you much success, growth and prosperity as the travel beat continues…Enjoy your summer.

Best regards,

Beverlee S. Patterson
President & COO

ABC Global Services Launches A Luxury Hotel Program Focused on VIP Travelers

lnelson — Thu, 05 May 2011 10:55:10 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ROSEMONT, IL, May 5, 2011 - ABC Global Services announces the launch of Premier Privileges by ABC, a brand new hotel program featuring 4- and 5-star properties located around the globe. Focused on the needs of its customers’ VIP travelers, Premier Privileges by ABC offers a collection of the world’s finest upscale resort and city center properties.

In addition to the array of distinctive hotels, the program provides unique negotiated amenities and exclusive service elements to pamper the elite traveler on business or leisure stays. All rates in the program are commissionable to agencies.

Premier Privileges by ABC is accessible online at www.abcglobal.travel, via all GDS and soon through ABC’s online booking engine, EZ Book by ABC. A sleek print directory for travelers is in production. For more information, travel agents should contact info@abcglobal.travel or call 1.800.722.5179 or +1.312.462.1965.

“The ABC Premier Hotel Program has always and continues to provide agencies and their varied client base with a wealth of choices for their hotel needs,” notes Beverlee S. Patterson, president & COO, ABC Global Services. “Premier Privileges by ABC attends precisely to the particular needs of their VIP travelers and we are excited to be offering them this valuable program,” Patterson adds.

About ABC Global Services. ABC Global Services is a leading provider of services to the global travel agency and corporate communities, focused on providing innovation, value and premier benefits. Providing global solutions for today’s travel professional, ABC Global Services’ offers the ABC Premier Hotel Program™, Premier Privileges by ABC, EZ Book by ABC™ (hotel booking engine), ABC Global Connect™, and a host of preferred supplier programs. ABC’s subscriber base includes more than 7,600 agency locations in 76 countries. More information can be found at www.abcglobal.travel.

Contact: Laura Nelson

lnelson@abcglobal.travel

+1.312.462.1984

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UpFront: From ABC's President & COO

lnelson — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:44:16 GMT

UpFront: From ABC's President & COO

A few issues ago I used this space to highlight the importance skilled, nimble, and positive thinking professionals play in the overall success of an organization. Reflecting on “glass half full” employees, I cited how they tend to rally behind your company, reinventing their jobs and roles to meet marketplace and economic conditions. Their attitudes and perceptions— all helping to drive innovation, success, customer and supplier satisfaction and loyalty— are akin to the bricklayer building a cathedral when the most his peers could envision was a wall.

The bricklayer is truly a metaphor for ABC Global Services’ staff throughout the last several months. ABC has taken significant steps in reinventing itself for the future (an ongoing process), and I am convinced that were it not for the skill, talent, and most of all, entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm of each and every member of our staff, we could have not met our goals so fluidly and with such success. Ultimately, all our eyes were and continue to be 150 percent customer focused, while offering 100 percent excellence in all we do to meet the unique and ever-changing needs of our subscribers worldwide. I’m thankful for every employee who exhibits ABC’s PROUD values. And of course, success is elusive without the ongoing input and support from our broad base of loyal customers and supplier partners.

2011. “Cautious optimism” continues to describe the economic outlook for the travel industry short term -- in both business and leisure sectors worldwide. On the U.S. front, according to a recent YPartnership/Harrison Group survey, 55 percent of all U.S. adults are planning overnight leisure trips within Q1 or Q2 (up from 53 percent in 2009). Their study also reports that 41 percent of meeting planners expect more off site meetings will take place this year. Meanwhile, the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) forecasts corporate travel to be up 7 percent this year (from a 4 percent uptick in 2010).

All good news balanced by higher airfares and hotel rates (in certain markets) as well as increasing ancillary fees. We will also witness a year where mobile applications and social networking continue their growth pattern. Yes, cautious optimism seems appropriate…and ABC Global Services is ready and prepared to assist you with industry-leading products and services—the 2011 ABC Premier Hotel Program, Block Space, Premier Privileges, and UpClose event series, to name a few. To learn more about these or any ABC service, contact your ABC Key Account Manager (KAM) at kam@abcglobal.travel /1.800.722.5179 / +1.312.462.1965.

So, as you navigate your business forward with cautious optimism—around obstacles and challenges—you can count on ABC Global Services for skilled and innovative thinking, glass half-full enthusiasm and globally-oriented, value-added programs and services.

Best regards for a profitable 2011,

Beverlee S. Patterson

President & COO

New Phone Numbers at ABC Global Services

lnelson — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:15:41 GMT

ABC Global Services has installed a new state-of-the-art telephone system companywide. Implementation of the new service is effective 27 January, 2011. Note: toll-free numbers have not changed.

NEW NUMBERS (Plus Toll-Free):

ABC Headquarters:

PHONE: +1-312-462-1965 (local) / 1-800-722-5179 (US and Canada)
FAX: +1-312-234-0545

ABC Premier/Block Space Desk:

PHONE: +1-312-462-1975 (local) / 1-800-858-0082 (US and Canada)
FAX:+1-312-234-0548

* Please make note of these new telephone numbers *

ABC Global Services Names Patti Free to Senior Director, Business Development

lnelson — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:41:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, IL, December 16, 2010 - ABC Global Services announces the appointment of Patti Free as senior director, business development. Patti will be charged with the strategic growth and development of ABC’s leisure customer base. Ms. Free will focus on all sectors of this segment on a global basis, including travel agency groups, at-home agent networks, and associations at both existing ABC accounts as well as new business opportunities. Leading a team of business development managers, Patti’s reach will be international, supporting the distribution of ABC Global Services’ products and services. She will report to Cynthia Kropp, executive vice president, marketing and business development.

Patti brings to ABC an extensive background in travel and hospitality spanning more than 20 years. Her career began with Westin Hotels where she worked in operations, management, and sales and marketing. Patti’s skills were also honed working with hotel management companies supporting chain brands and independent hoteliers. With her hotel sales and marketing experience as a base of knowledge, Patti moved to the agency side in the mid 1990s and since then has worked directly with individual agencies, agency networks and associations focused on leisure travel. Over this time she has developed marketing programs, products and services that provide efficiency and value to the leisure travel agent community and its clients.

“We are excited to have Patti on board,” said Cynthia Kropp. “Patti brings a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise combined with a leisure travel perspective that aligns with ABC’s global scope and future objectives. She will help position ABC to meet our customers’ varied needs beyond the scope of corporate travel and grow our base in a host of new directions,” Kropp added.

About ABC Global Services. ABC Global Services is a leading provider of services to the global travel agency and corporate communities, which focuses on providing value and premier benefits. Providing progressive solutions, exclusive offerings and innovative programs, ABC Global Services offers the ABC Premier Hotel Program™ (including EZ Book with ABC hotel booking engine), ABC Global Connect™, and a host of preferred supplier programs. ABC’s subscriber base includes more than 7,600 agency locations in 76 countries. These subscribers represent more than six million room nights annually, providing revenues to hotels nearing a billion dollars (USD). Founded in 1978, ABC Global Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of Thomas Cook. More information can be found at www.abcglobal.travel.

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“ABC Global Services” - New Name for ABC Corporate Services

lnelson — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 09:03:23 GMT

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Laura Nelson

lnelson@abccst.com

+1-402-885-8938

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“ABC Global Services” - New Name for ABC Corporate Services

Reflecting Expanded Focus Worldwide

Company to Expand ABC Premier Hotel Program™, Global Programs

and Worldwide Partnerships

Announces New Structure for Hotel Department

ROSEMONT, IL., -- ABC Corporate Services, the industry-leading travel services company and provider of the ABC Premier Hotel Program™, announces today that it has changed its name to “ABC Global Services” to better reflect its focused strategy to expand the ABC Premier Hotel Program and other global programs within a growing worldwide marketplace.

“The name change is a natural reflection of ABC’s global scope which meets the needs of more than 7,600 agency locations in 76 countries, plus an extensive network of hotels and supplier partners around the world,” said Beverlee Patterson, president & COO, ABC Global Services. “Furthermore, it positions us to meet our customers’ varied needs beyond the scope of corporate travel, and grow our base in a host of new directions,” noted Patterson.

In tandem with its new name, ABC has reorganized its hotel department to best support its initiatives with the promotions of David Anderson to vice president, hotel & supplier relations; William Bennett to hotel & supplier programs manager and Patricia Braun to hotel & supplier programs coordinator.

ABC Global Services’ commitment remains: to provide premier value, benefits and service excellence to its customers and their clients, while remaining a fundamental distribution channel for a comprehensive network of worldwide hotel and valuable complementary suppliers.

About ABC Global Services. ABC Global Services is a leading provider of services to the global travel agency and corporate communities, which focuses on providing value and premier benefits. Providing progressive solutions, exclusive offerings and innovative programs, ABC Global Services offers the ABC Premier Hotel Program™ (including the EZ Book with ABC hotel booking engine), ABC Global Connect™, and a host of preferred supplier programs. ABC’s subscriber base includes more than 7,600 agency locations in 76 countries. These subscribers represent more than six million room nights annually, providing revenues to hotels nearing a billion dollars (USD). Founded in 1978, ABC Global Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of Thomas Cook. More information can be found at www.abcglobal.travel.

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Upfront: From ABC's President & COO

hawk3ye — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 14:01:44 GMT

Changes at ABC Point to New Opportunities, Expanded Directions for the Future

Consistency in Service Excellence and Value is Paramount

Our industry never sits still; nor does ABC. We have just announced our new company name: ABC Global Services! This is a busy and exhilarating time in the history of our organization. And, as you chat with your key account manager as well as others at ABC, and learn more about our refocused strategy and structure, it will become clear that our commitment to you and your clients has not changed.

ABC Global Services’ overarching mission continues to be: “to provide premier value, benefits and service excellence to our travel agent customers and their clients, while remaining a fundamental distribution channel for a comprehensive network of worldwide hotel and complementary suppliers.” Our pledge to be a vital business partner for both our agency customers and suppliers is unwavering and as strong as ever.

WHY GLOBAL? Many of you may ask why have we changed “corporate” to “global” in our name? It reflects our global customer base located throughout more than 76 countries, as well as products that support agencies and travelers throughout the world. Yet it’s much more. Global means international in perspective and worldwide reach but it also means our ability to meet the all-inclusive demands of an ever-changing marketplace. Our new name is indicative of ABC’s strategic direction -- to provide services and products that go beyond the corporate-oriented parameters that had once defined our company. It also talks to the wide range of customers we are able to support―from traditional agencies and home-based agents to agency groups and corporate travel departments. Finally, “global” addresses the depth of our international supplier partnerships that we continue to cultivate and foster, all to the benefit of our customers.

ABC PREMIER HOTEL PROGRAM GROWS. A key example of ABC’s global growth is the ABC Premier Hotel Program. We are increasing our resources to support its tactical development and that of other ABC global brands. ABC Premier Privileges, our brand new VIP leisure hotel program – to be launched in spring 2011, also illustrates this expanded breadth. And, as part of this effort, we have restructured our team of hotel department professionals to better meet our goals.

OTHER RESTRUCTURING. We have reorganized other departments at ABC Global Services to meet the needs of our company and customers moving forward. You can read more about these changes on p.5 of this newsletter. So, as we turn the page on 2010 and begin a New Year and decade, I am excited about the opportunities the future holds for ABC Global Services, our customers, supplier partners and our dynamic industry at large. I look forward to meeting many of you throughout the year, especially at UpClose with ABC Global Services next spring (stay tuned for more details on these important networking and educational events).

On behalf of everyone at ABC Global Services, I wish you a happy, healthy, and safe Holiday Season and prosperous New Year!

Best Regards,

Beverlee S. Patterson
President & COO

Celebrating more than 30 years of excellence

ABC Corporate Services and agent24 Ink Deal

lnelson — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 13:08:31 GMT

Contact: Laura Nelson

lnelson@abccst.com

+1-402-885-8938

agent24 Acquires ABC’s TESS 24-Hour Emergency/After Hours Service

Seamless Transition Ensures No Downtime for Customers

ROSEMONT, IL., Oct. 14, 2010 – Rosemont, IL-based ABC Corporate Services and agent24 announce today the sale of of ABC’s Travelers Emergency Service System (TESS) to agent24. TESS will be part of agent24, a subsidiary of American Marketing Group, parent company of 17 travel brands including TRAVELSAVERS and headquartered in Oyster Bay, New York.

“The decision to sell TESS follows months of due diligence by both companies including a thorough and measured review of customer needs, consideration of the dynamic travel marketplace, and our long-term strategies,” said Beverlee Patterson, president & COO, ABC Corporate Services. “It was very important for ABC that our TESS customers continue to receive high service levels and support, and we strongly believe agent24 will be able to meet that need. Through agent24s’ sophisticated technology, they have the resources to effectively manage and support these customers as their needs grow and develop,” Patterson added.

As part of the agreement, ABC Corporate Services’ TESS staff will transition to agent24. The change for TESS subscribers will be transparent, with no service disruption or downtime.

Jim Mazza, COO for agent24 commented on the acquisition:”ABC is a long-standing player in the travel industry and we’re so pleased to welcome this group of world-class travel professionals to our operation. We’ve been in the after-hours business for nearly 20 years starting with TRAVEL HELPLINE and then acquiring the THOR24 after-hours call center in 2006. Now with the addition of ABC’s TESS to our ranks, we’re the undisputed leader with the majority of the market share in travel contact centers. As we move into 2011 and beyond, we’ll continue to take advantage of economies of scale and invest heavily in technology. Because of our ongoing R&D, we’ll always be out in front providing superior global emergency travel assistance services that give independent travel agencies the power to compete head-to-head with the large multi-nationals in servicing both business clientele and international travelers.”

“ABC Corporate Services’ commitment remains: to provide premier value, benefits and service excellence to its travel professional customers and their clients, while remaining a fundamental distribution channel for a comprehensive network of worldwide hotels and select suppliers,” Patterson concluded.

About ABC Corporate Services
ABC Corporate Services, headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois is a leading provider of services to the global travel agency and corporate communities. Providing progressive solutions, exclusive offerings and innovative value-added programs for the business of travel, ABC helps its customers succeed within an ever-changing marketplace.

About agent24
agent24 is owned by American Marketing Group, Inc. which is the parent company of 17 leading travel brands including. TRAVELSAVERS, The Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel (NEST), The Affluent Traveler Collection, Well-Being Travel, Acclaim Meetings, TWIN (TRAVELSAVERS Worldwide Independent Network), Forte Business Travel Solutions, travel tix, Travstar Technologies, cruiseexpress, TRAVEL HELPLINE, agent24 and TravelMarketReport.com.

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Upfront: From ABC's President & COO

lnelson — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:25:47 GMT

Commitment and Loyalty Through Demanding Times and Beyond…

Last fall, I spoke to the resilience and endurance of ABC, our customers, suppliers and the industry at large. I recounted how we’ve weathered challenging periods throughout history, yet with innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, we have persisted and prospered.

Twelve months later, as we enter a new decade and as the travel sector climbs out of what may well be one of its most difficult of times with record low hotel occupancies and revenue per available room (rev par), we are seeing with cautious optimism indicators that the horizon is changing:

• Travel agency sales (posted by ARC) rose more than 14 percent July 2010 over July 2009 while travel agency transactions grew more than 3 percent

• Trips to key business hubs worldwide for the first half of 2010 have increased as a result of a trending up in business travel

• Airline and hotel price drops are expected to cease soon and turn around

• New hotel building thrives—allowing for more hotel choices supporting varied customer needs

We Know the Atmosphere Will Improve. The issue, as I see it, should not be to ponder when things will get easier but how can we make the new normal better than the old one in terms of long-term partnerships and customer loyalty for a win-win-win all around.

The Agency/Hotelier Relationship. Our hotel partners throughout the world appreciate and can quantify how ABC and our customers help fill their rooms. ABC hotel suppliers do not take travel agents for granted. I disagree with those that say travel agents and hotel suppliers are adversaries, and I firmly believe we are true partners in this together. Through Premier Perks that are included in ABC Premier Rates such as complimentary breakfast, parking and more, our hotel partners demonstrate their commitment to ABC and our customers. Through long term participation in the ABC Premier Hotel Program, our hotel partners show their ongoing support of ABC and you―our valued customers. We encourage information and creative ideas from our hotel partners about how our customers and ABC can be an extension of YOUR sales team to help move business your way.

ABC Communiqués, Events and Training Help All to Succeed. ABC communicates with our customers through various means such as our ongoing Webcast series, email and print messaging, and live interaction at our regional UpClose with ABC events. We will continue to strengthen these forums with more participation and new communication technology. Most of ABC’s customers take advantage of these educational opportunities but if you are not familiar with them, please contact your ABC account service representative.

Attention for Your VIP Clients. All travelers are special, but some require a higher level of attention and amenities. Early in 2011, ABC will be launching ABC Premier Privileges to respond to this need. ABC Premier Privileges will consist of a select, by invitation only, grouping of the very best hotel properties in key business and leisure markets worldwide – driven by customer need. In addition, each hotel will offer VIP service enhancements that only the ABC client can enjoy, establishing the high-end repeat loyal customer. More to come on this soon!

Are We on Track? I’d like to reach out to the ABC agency audience and ask each of you – in what ways can we better support your needs? From price protection to block space and non-GDS access as needed, the ABC Premier Hotel Program is the industry’s most well-known and reputable program (comprehensive, global, value-driven and dependable). The ABC Premier Hotel Program provides more than 31,000 hotels, with commissionable rates, a user-friendly online booking engine and much more. Please share with us any ways we can enhance the program if necessary with more innovation to support your ever-changing needs.

On behalf of everyone at ABC Corporate Services, thank you all―our beloved travel agents, corporate travel managers, and supplier partners alike―for your commitment, loyalty and continued support through these demanding times, and beyond. As we soon close the page on 2010 and begin a new year, and a new decade, we wish you success, growth and prosperity. As always, I appreciate hearing from you. Feel free to contact me anytime at bpatterson@abccst.com.

Best Regards,

Beverlee S. Patterson

President & COO

Morrison International Joins ABC Global Connect Network

lnelson — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:04:16 GMT

August 20, 2010 – The ABC Global Connect membership grew recently with the addition of Morrison International, a boutique-style travel agency based in San Mateo, California.

A travel agency leader since 1946, Morrison is dedicated to providing excellent customer service with a unique personal touch. In 2009 the agency was recognized by The Business Journal as the “seventh largest agency in Silicon Valley.” While Morrison’s primary focus is the corporate travel market, the agency operates leisure and incentive divisions. To best support its diverse customer base, Morrison’s configuration includes several off-site agents, an on-site agency and affiliates worldwide.

“We have been a long-time subscriber to ABC Corporate Services’, successfully using the ABC Premier Hotel Program and ABC Travelers Emergency Service System (TESS) for years. ABC is a wonderful organization to work with, and Global Connect is a natural fit for us at this time,” says Daniel Hanes, chief operating officer, Morrison International. “ABC is honored to have Morrison as a customer and we welcome them to this prestigious group of leading travel organizations,” adds Cynthia Kropp, executive vice president, sales & service, ABC Corporate Services.

About Global Connect. Global Connect is ABC Corporate Services’ international alliance program. It offers networking and information exchange opportunities, providing members with an ongoing platform through which ideas, experiences and successes can be shared. Members include a powerful network of independently owned and operated travel management companies located in the major business centers of the world. Representing thousands of worldwide locations, members contribute their in-depth knowledge of local markets to support individual and group objectives.

About ABC Corporate Services. ABC Corporate Services is a leading provider of services to the global travel agency and corporate communities. Providing progressive solutions for the business of travel, ABC Corporate Services offers the ABC Premier Hotel Program™ (including the EZ Book with ABC hotel booking engine), TESS – Traveler Emergency Service System™, ABC GlobalFares/International Rate Desk™, Travel Risk Management solutions, ABC Global Connect™, and a host of preferred supplier programs. For more information about ABC Corporate Services, visit www.abccst.com, contact info@abccst.com or call 1-800-722-5179 / +1-402-885-8900.

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Contact: Laura Nelson

lnelson@abccst.com

+1-402-885-8938

Intouraero Travel Management Company Joins ABC Global Connect

lnelson — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 15:36:18 GMT

Intouraero Travel Management Company (www.intouraero.ru), headquartered in Moscow, Russia, has joined ABC Corporate Services’ global networking organization, ABC Global Connect. The agency, a market leader for more than 17 years, specializes in corporate travel as well as meetings & incentives business.

Intouraero provides its clients with experienced counselors, high service levels and a strong network of supplier direct programs that includes the Russian Railway System, Aeroflot and Transportation/Clearing House companies. In addition to its headquarters in Moscow, Intouraero maintains branch locations in St. Petersburg, Ekaterinburg, Togliatti, and Cheboksary.

“We are very excited about participating in Global Connect,” notes Artem Chernyshov, principal, Intouraero. “The concept of an open and progressive networking environment where we can share ideas and concepts with like-minded travel executives in an effort to grow our business internationally is what we liked most about Global Connect, and we look forward to working with the other members,” he added. “ABC is thrilled to have Intouraero on board; the agency’s participation significantly extends Global Connect’s reach into an important market, benefitting the membership’s corporate client needs there,” says Fred Goldberger, international sales manager, ABC Corporate Services.

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