FAQ
What is Direct-OTA?
Research shows that over 72% of travellers want to book directly with accommodations, but don’t want to navigate multiple individual websites—they prefer a one-stop-shop experience. Direct-OTA, like aroom, combines the ease of traditional OTAs with the benefits of direct bookings. It offers travellers a one-stop-shop experience—search, compare, and book—all on one platform while enjoying direct rates, transparent pricing, and seamless communication. Operators maintain control over customer relationships, manage services directly, and avoid high commissions. With a low transaction fee, aroom provides affordability similar to an operator’s own direct booking cost, ensuring more profits stay within the local community.
What is the commission rate for using aroom?
At aroom, we charge a low transaction fee of just 3%. In comparison, platforms like Booking.com and Expedia often charge around 15% in commission, plus additional discounts for programs like Genius or flight bundles, which can reduce profits by another 10%. When travellers book through aroom instead of overseas OTAs, operators save around 80% on commission fees, keeping more revenue within their business.
Are there conditions applied for such a low transaction fee?
Yes, but they’re simple and fair. To enjoy our low transaction fee, operators just need to support our direct marketing efforts. This means placing aroom’s high-quality, free Travel & Tech magazine in their rooms and offering the best direct rates and benefits.
Ideally, the direct offer should be more attractive than what you list on major OTAs. Plus, operators retain full ownership of customer relationships and services.
Does aroom intend to drive lower rates, using a price war against giant OTAs?
No, aroom does not promote a price war. Instead, we encourage operators to focus on upselling direct booking benefits rather than competing on price. These benefits can include early check-in, late check-out, free parking, flexible cancellation terms, free upgrades, or complimentary breakfast. While some operators currently discount rates to attract direct bookings, our long-term goal is to shift away from price competition and focus on adding value, ensuring better profitability for operators without the need for excessive discounting.
How does aroom differentiate itself from Booking.com and Expedia? What are the benefits for travellers using aroom?
aroom is a one-stop-shop direct-booking platform, making reservations easy and recognised as direct by hoteliers. This often means more benefits for travellers, including better service through direct communication with operators. Importantly, aroom is an Aussie brand, and unlike international OTAs, aroom keeps accommodation revenue in Australia, supporting local businesses and communities. That’s what Aussies do!
Why should I encourage travellers to book through aroom instead of promoting my own website for direct booking?
Driving bookings through your own website involves costs—such as booking engines, maintenance, and more—that can add up to 2-3% for small to medium operators, even before discounts. Plus, there’s a limit to how many direct bookings you can generate on your own. Research shows over 90% of travellers prefer one-stop-shop platforms instead of browsing multiple sites. aroom offers this convenience, aligning with traveller preferences while easing financial pressure on operators. By encouraging guests to use aroom, you reduce reliance on overseas OTAs and retain more profit. Together, we achieve more.
How does aroom ensure pricing transparency?
aroom never manipulates operators’ listing rates or adds extra discounts or rebates. You decide how competitive your pricing is—not aroom. We are committed to full pricing transparency for both operators and travellers. Our platform displays the direct rate and compares it with other OTAs, ensuring the best available rates with no hidden fees or inflated commissions.
When will aroom launch?
aroom is scheduled to launch in June 2025. We are currently in the final stages of preparation and testing to ensure everything runs smoothly, delivering an efficient and seamless experience right from day one.
Register now to receive aroom’s launch updates.
How will aroom promote its brand and services?
While Booking.com and Expedia dominate online advertising, aroom uses a unique offline approach. We are investing over a million dollars in our Travel & Tech magazine, which reaches 360,000 travellers daily in 220,000 hotel/motel rooms. We’re also launching Australia’s largest accommodation promotion, with over 4,000 free room nights through regional TV networks. Additionally, our strong social media presence will ensure consistent brand visibility and engagement. Click here to check out our publication plans
Is aroom financially sustainable with such a low transaction fee and major marketing efforts?
Yes, aroom’s financial model is designed for long-term sustainability. Our marketing efforts are supported by investors, sponsors, and operators’ commitment to direct initiatives like placing aroom’s Travel & Tech magazine. By focusing on efficient marketing and strong partnerships, we’re confident in our ability to maintain a healthy and growing business, ensuring ongoing value for both operators and travellers.
Who are the founders and supporters of aroom?
aroom is founded & supported by a diverse team of industry professionals, including accommodation operators, IT experts, real estate agents, and finance professionals. With over 20 years of experience in marketing, 45 years in Australian accommodation, and 30 years in global IT, the team brings deep expertise. Backed strong industry support, aroom is poised to transform the online booking landscape.
How is aroom governed to avoid becoming another wotif?
aroom is governed by industry stakeholders and associations to ensure it remains locally owned and operated. This governance helps prevent foreign acquisitions and keeps the platform focused on serving the best interests of Australian accommodation operators and travellers. By maintaining local control, aroom aims to protect and prioritise the needs of Australia’s accommodation sector.
Is my channel manager connected to aroom?
Register today to ensure your channel manager is connected to aroom. Most mainstream channel managers are already integrated or in the process of being integrated, but we want to make sure no one is left behind.
How can I stay updated on aroom’s progress and launch?
Register today to stay updated. Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest news and updates.
I would like to become a partner of aroom. Who should I contact?
aroom welcomes partner support! If you’re interested, please reach out via our partnership page or email us at partnership@aroom.com.au. We look forward to working with you!