Amazon preparing to launch hotel booking website

21 Nov 2014

Electronic commerce company Amazon looks set to enter the travel market with the launch of a new website that allows users to book hotel rooms.

Skift reports that the new site, Amazon Travel, will utilise the company’s familiar brand to create a marketplace for independent and boutique hotels in the US who struggle to compete with big hotel chains and internet travel agencies.

Although Amazon has yet to announce the new venture officially, Skift sources say the service could be rolled out as early as 1 January and will initially feature selected hotels near New York, Seattle and Los Angeles. Written content on attractions in each hotel’s area is to also be included on Amazon Travel.

According to two hotels already signed up to the website, Amazon Travel will allow each establishment to feature its room types, availability, pricing information and photos at a cost of 15pc commission for each prepaid booking.

In September, Amazon launched its Kindle Unlimited service in Ireland and the UK. Like a Spotify or Netflix for books, the all-you-can-read subscription service offers limitless access to 650,000 titles and thousands of audiobooks for a flat monthly fee.

Amazon image via Shutterstock

Dean Van Nguyen was a contributor to Silicon Republic

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