When we think of Amazon Prime Day, travel deals are not usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, this year seems to be different. Amazon has dedicated a page specifically for “Prime Day Travel Deals,” featuring well-known brands like Carnival Cruise Line, Southwest Airlines, and Viator, among others. The involvement of major car rental companies like Turo, Sixt, and Avis further solidifies Amazon’s position in the travel industry.
Travel brands participating in the July 16 and 17 shopping event have expressed their excitement about the potential reach and exposure provided by Amazon. For instance, Amy Martin Ziegenfuss, the chief marketing officer of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the opportunity to showcase unique cruise vacations to a targeted audience. She emphasized the value of the partnership with Amazon, which has proven beneficial in the past. Similarly, Viator, in partnership with Amazon Alexa, sees Prime Day as a way to connect with millions of travelers shopping on Amazon daily.
According to Laurel Greatrix, vice president of brand and communications for Viator, the collaboration with Amazon is part of a broader strategy to reach travelers where they are already shopping. By offering a variety of activities, tours, and experiences directly on Amazon, Viator aims to tap into Amazon’s extensive customer base. Amazon’s discounted flights, experiences, and rides are enticing for Prime members, with exclusive deals such as 30% off base fares with Southwest Airlines and 20% off experiences with Viator.
Future of Amazon in the Travel Industry
While the full impact of Amazon’s foray into travel remains to be seen, the company’s efforts to provide travel deals are not entirely new. Last year, Amazon collaborated with Priceline for Prime Day, and in 2021, they partnered with MakeMyTrip to offer travel options in India. Amazon’s ability to leverage its massive platform and customer base could potentially disrupt the traditional travel booking landscape.
Overall, Amazon’s entry into the travel industry through Prime Day travel deals signals a shift in how travelers find and book their next vacation. With major travel brands on board and exclusive discounts for Prime members, Amazon is positioning itself as a notable player in the metasearch market. As the partnership evolves and more travel products become available, it will be interesting to see how Amazon’s influence continues to grow in the travel sector.
Leave a Reply