Business models
Partners can use one of three different business models with Expedia Group, and this will be specified in their contract. Partners need to know which business model their properties use in order to develop their interface accordingly.
For example, if a developer codes to and tests Expedia Collect (EC) reservations only, their properties using Expedia Traveler Preference (ETP) or Hotel Collect (HC) business models will not be able to use that interface.
Note that the Expedia Traveler Preference (ETP) property setting is also available to partners, which enables travelers to choose whether to pay online during booking (EC) or pay the property directly during their stay (HC). Depending on context, ETP is also referred to as "Dual" or "Flex." For more information or to switch to Expedia Traveler Preference, contact us.
For details about which elements or entities are impacted by business model, consult the detailed element descriptions in the Reference section of the booking and reservation APIs.
Hotel Collect
In this business model, the partner collects payment from the traveler. This method is also known as "Pay Later" and is sometimes referred to as "HC," "Agency," or "Property Collect" depending on the context. This business model may allow travelers to book same-day and next-day reservations on Expedia points-of-sale without a credit card.
The reservation is confirmed, but payment is not collected until the traveler checks out after their stay. Expedia Group subsequently collects commission from the property.
Expedia Collect
In this business model, Expedia Group collects payment from travelers at the time of booking. This model is sometimes called "Pay Now" and is sometimes referred to as "EC" or "Merchant," depending on context.
The reservation is paid for and funds are sent to Expedia Group. After the traveler's stay, the partner sends an invoice to Expedia Group or charges an Expedia Virtual Card to collect monies owed for the provided services. The net rate reflected in reservations that integrate into the property's system should not be disclosed to guests.
Updated Expedia Collect
With Updated Expedia Collect, Expedia Group collects payment from travelers at the time of booking. In some regions, there are regulatory considerations that impact how payment and commission is managed between Expedia and the partner. Two remittance types are available with this business model:
Net remittance: Partners must request payment from Expedia on unpaid reservations after checkout, and Expedia pays the partner the collected amount minus commission and tax on commission.
Gross remittance: Partners charge an EVC for the gross booking amount at the time of check-in. Expedia invoices the partner for commission and tax on commission.