Report highlights growth in online travel sector

The online travel sector experienced the biggest growth in bookings across the retail industry over the last year, according to a recent survey.

Twelve per cent more people booked a travel product on the internet during the past 12 months than in the previous year, the study from eDigitalResearch found.

A report released by the company and IMRG also showed that nearly half (48 per cent) of people are more likely to look online this year to find the cheapest deals.

Affordability appears to be a big concern for consumers, with one in four respondents to the survey saying they are planning to spend up to 50 per cent less on their holidays in 2010.

David Smith, director of operations at IMRG, said: "This marks a shift in consumer purchasing behaviour as more people are swayed by better holiday deals online and are less likely to plan so far in advance."

He added: "With another tough year ahead for travel, it is important that companies capture the growing online bookings market with better deals and a better user experience."

A number of airlines have already launched sales this year to attract customers making early travel plans, including Aer Lingus, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

Posted by Kate, 08 February 2010 14:06

News tags

• Aer Lingus
• Virgin
• British Airways