Press Release

For Immediate Release
14 November 2007

ACTE and Qatar Civil Aviation Authority Respond to Commissions Development in Middle East With Complimentary Executive Forum

Alexandria, VA -- The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) is convening a "Priority Briefing" in the form of an Executive Forum convened to address the elimination of airline commissions in Qatar, as of January 1, 2008. Held in conjunction with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) this complimentary event will be held on December 2, 2007, at the Al Dasha Ballroom, Sharq Village and Spa, Raas Abou Aboud, Qatar (+974 425 6666).
 
While the commission structure has been steadily withdrawn in most markets, it is generally a process completed in stages. This is the first instance where zero commissions have been mandated by law and will have an impact on every airline, corporate buyer and TMC in the region simultaneously. With commissions no longer being available as a remuneration structure to travel management companies, companies may regard this sudden development as a major increase in travel expenses.
 
"ACTE has assisted hundred of companies in regions throughout the world in getting through this transition," said the association's Executive Director Susan Gurley. "It is a matter of establishing value in a fee-based relationship that is ultimately more cost effective and controllable. This event will be the first step in smoothing a transition that will be inevitable for all regions."
 
The forum will approach the issue from two perspectives. The first presentation is titled, "Surviving Zero Commissions -- Working With Transaction and Management Fees, And Adding Value To Your Clients. It will provide TMCs with a prioritized checklist of structures that need to be implemented, as well as a basis for determining management fees. The second presentation ‘Your relationship with your TMC is about to change – What you need to know about paying for Travel Management Services will explore the corporate buyer's options for TMC remuneration, choosing the best one for you, and maintaining an ongoing dialogue through the transition. It will also provide Corporate Buyers with a prioritized checklist of structures that need to be implemented, as well as a basis for determining management fees.
 
Delegates will hear from buyers, consultants and technology companies in ways to facilitate the transition.
 
"ACTE is proud to have been selected by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority as the primary industry vehicle to publicize and respond to this development,"
said Gurley. "It's yet another example of ACTE's reputation for objectivity in the international market."
 
For more information, contact:
Jack Riepe
Global Communications
t: 610-719-8396
c: 610-256-0124
e: [email protected]


For more information, contact:
Debbie Flynn
CEO
Brighter Group
The Pod, London's Vertical Gateway
Bridges Wharf, Battersea
London SW11 3BE England
T: 020 7326 9880
F: 020 7326 9890
E: [email protected]
W: www.brightergroup.com