November 13-16, 2023
Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood, Florida
You, Me & The Machine

2023 Program

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2023 Phocuswright Conference • November 13-16, 2023 • Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood, Florida

Monday November 13
All Day
8:30 AM
-
9:30 PM
Phocuswright Reception Desk Open
Register or check in, and collect your conference materials. Phocuswright Reception is the go-to spot for all your needs.
Register or check in, and collect your conference materials. Phocuswright Reception is the go-to spot for all your needs.
8:30 AM – 9:30 PM
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Networking Showcase and Lounge Open
The Exhibitor Showcase is open for business and abuzz with activity. Meet the innovators and connect with exhibitors one-on-one!
The Exhibitor Showcase is open for business and abuzz with activity. Meet the innovators and connect with exhibitors one-on-one!
12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
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Limited Access
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
9:30 AM
-
2:30 PM
The Young Leaders Summit Sponsored by: Hotelbeds
Private event - by acceptance only.
Each year, Phocuswright brings together the industry’s best and brightest travel leaders aged 35 and under ... [read more]
Private event - by acceptance only.
Each year, Phocuswright brings together the industry’s best and brightest travel leaders aged 35 and under to be part of this elite group. This private program during The Phocuswright Conference is a launching pad for the next generation of travel luminaries to connect, debate and collaborate.

Details here!
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
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Startup Program Sponsored by: Hilton and Kiwi.com
Private event - by acceptance only.
Innovation is the lifeblood of any industry. The Startup Program is a curated networking platform to ... [read more]
Private event - by acceptance only.
Innovation is the lifeblood of any industry. The Startup Program is a curated networking platform to connect startups with corporates and investors to foster real innovation.

Details here!
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
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Diversity in Leadership
Diversity Advocates share initiatives they have implemented in their own organizations that address issues related to diversity and inclusion and ... [read more]
Diversity Advocates share initiatives they have implemented in their own organizations that address issues related to diversity and inclusion and will serve as a source for PhocusWire throughout the coming year.

This is open to registered conference attendees. Capacity is limited, so register early to be included in the discussion!

View Complete Agenda
12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
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Lunch
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
1:00 PM
-
2:00 PM
Networking Lunch
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
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Industry Roundtables
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
2:00 PM
-
2:45 PM
Industry Roundtables

Participate in intimate, off-record curated roundtable discussions based on your business interests, moderated by industry experts and ... [read more]

Participate in intimate, off-record curated roundtable discussions based on your business interests, moderated by industry experts and Phocuswright analysts.



The roundtable discussions are an opportunity for you to get together with like-minded attendees and industry experts in an informal setting to examine issues as they relate to the table topic.



Learn More

2:00 PM – 2:45 PM
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Breakouts
2:45 PM
-
3:15 PM
80 Ways to Pay Sponsored by: Nuvei
74% of travelers will not make a purchase if their preferred payment method is unavailable. We conducted a global study to find out what your ... [read more]
74% of travelers will not make a purchase if their preferred payment method is unavailable. We conducted a global study to find out what your customers really want when paying for travel: a seamless checkout experience using their preferred payment method. Join Nuvei's VP Travel & Mobility and Gig Economy, Al Enes, to discover what your customers look for in an online checkout experience and what would encourage them to come back for more.
Al Enes, VP of Gig Economy, Travel & Mobility, Nuvei
2:45 PM – 3:15 PM
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New Traveler Path to Purchase Sponsored by: Expedia Group
The modern traveler path to purchase is one with many touchpoints and sources of inspiration — from streaming content and social media videos to ... [read more]
The modern traveler path to purchase is one with many touchpoints and sources of inspiration — from streaming content and social media videos to digital ads and travel sites. With the road to booking more complex than ever, this session will look at new Expedia Group digital and qualitative research that unpacks the online shopping journey of today’s travelers in multiple countries around the world. Join Rob Torres, senior vice president of Expedia Group Media Solutions and Retail Partnerships, to explore consumer behaviors leading up to a travel purchase, including the main drivers, interests, and resources influencing travel decisions. In less time than it takes to have a pizza delivered, Rob will reveal how travelers are inspired, how they research, and how they book trips online with actionable takeaways on how to reach these travelers throughout the path to purchase.
Rob Torres, Senior Vice President, Media Solutions & Retail Partnerships, Expedia Inc.
2:45 PM – 3:15 PM
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Industry Roundtables
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
3:30 PM
-
4:15 PM
Industry Roundtables

Participate in intimate, off-record curated roundtable discussions based on your business interests, moderated by industry experts and ... [read more]

Participate in intimate, off-record curated roundtable discussions based on your business interests, moderated by industry experts and Phocuswright analysts.



The roundtable discussions are an opportunity for you to get together with like-minded attendees and industry experts in an informal setting to examine issues as they relate to the table topic.



Learn More

3:30 PM – 4:15 PM
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Breakouts
4:30 PM
-
5:00 PM
Using AI to Convert Anonymous Consumers in a Privacy-First World Sponsored by: Session AI
In today’s digital age, consumers value their privacy more than ever, making anonymous browsing and booking increasingly common.? In this session, ... [read more]
In today’s digital age, consumers value their privacy more than ever, making anonymous browsing and booking increasingly common.? In this session, we will explore how new advances in AI enable leading brands to engage anonymous visitors and discuss critical strategies for converting them in-session.

Join Jason Seeba, CMO of Session AI, to discover why the future of consumer engagement hinges on effectively engaging anonymous visitors and explore solutions to get more bookings and revenue.
Jason Seeba, Chief Marketing Officer, Session AI
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
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Happy Hour
5:00 PM
-
10:00 PM
Happy Hour
Join us for drinks and enjoy networking with your fellow attendees, speakers, and the Phocuswright team!
Join us for drinks and enjoy networking with your fellow attendees, speakers, and the Phocuswright team!
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
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You, Me & The Machine Welcome Reception Sponsored by: TerraPay
This opening reception kicks off the evening and gets everyone networking and buzzing about the coming days' sessions and speakers.
This opening reception kicks off the evening and gets everyone networking and buzzing about the coming days' sessions and speakers.
8:30 PM – 10:00 PM
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Late Night at the Bar Sponsored by: Avalara and Chain4Travel
Join travel industry professionals for this relaxed, after-hours networking event - discuss trends, share ideas, and forge collaborations in a ... [read more]
Join travel industry professionals for this relaxed, after-hours networking event - discuss trends, share ideas, and forge collaborations in a laid-back setting, creating opportunities for innovation and partnerships.
10:00 PM – 12:00 AM
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Tuesday November 14
Rise & Shine
7:00 AM
-
9:00 AM
Morning Yoga and Morning Run
Embrace the dawn and begin your day with a serene morning yoga session or a refreshing run along the scenic beachfront as the sun casts its first ... [read more]
Embrace the dawn and begin your day with a serene morning yoga session or a refreshing run along the scenic beachfront as the sun casts its first rays over the ocean.

Professionally guided by expert coaches, these activities are crafted to welcome participants of all skill levels. Seize this opportunity to forge meaningful connections with fellow speakers and attendees in an atmosphere of communal well-being.
7:00 AM – 7:45 AM
Add
Breakfast and Networking Sponsored by: The Hertz Corporation
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Add
All Day
8:00 AM
-
7:00 PM
Networking Showcase and Lounge, and Attendee Services Open
Register or check in, and collect your conference materials. Phocuswright Reception is the go-to spot for all your needs.

Then, meet ... [read more]
Register or check in, and collect your conference materials. Phocuswright Reception is the go-to spot for all your needs.

Then, meet with innovators and exhibitors one-on-one! The showcase is open for business and abuzz with activity.
8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Add
Center Stage
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
9:00 AM
-
11:30 AM
Welcome to The Phocuswright Conference Pete Comeau, Managing Director, Phocuswright Inc.Charuta Fadnis, SVP, Research and Product Strategy, Phocuswright Inc.
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
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Executive Interview: Going for Global
Shifting its business mix and leveraging its leading brands globally is top of the agenda for this CEO as he tackles the challenges and ... [read more]
Shifting its business mix and leveraging its leading brands globally is top of the agenda for this CEO as he tackles the challenges and opportunities of a changing market.
Matt Goldberg, CEO, TripadvisorInterviewer Linda Fox, Senior Reporter, PhocusWire
9:15 AM – 9:35 AM
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Tech Talk: Redefining the PMS
Hotels are diversifying beyond just selling rooms. This innovator is leading the way in adapting the PMS to make every inch of a space in a hotel ... [read more]
Hotels are diversifying beyond just selling rooms. This innovator is leading the way in adapting the PMS to make every inch of a space in a hotel a revenue-generator.
Richard Valtr, Founder, Mews System
9:35 AM – 9:45 AM
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Executive Panel: The Experience Economy
A room or rental are table stakes for travelers today. Can these companies go beyond and give consumers experiences they'll never forget?
A room or rental are table stakes for travelers today. Can these companies go beyond and give consumers experiences they'll never forget?
Panelists Lindsay Liszewski, Vice President, Business Insight and Analytic Services, Choice Hotels InternationalOral Muir, VP Partnership Development & Global Distribution, HiltonAmir Segall, Commercial Director, AirbnbModerator Lorraine Sileo, Founder, Phocuswright Research and Senior Analyst, Phocuswright Inc.
9:45 AM – 10:10 AM
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Executive Panel: Beyond the Funnel
Ask these executives and they’ll tell you that social’s role in travel extends well beyond inspiration. But what that means in practice differs ... [read more]
Ask these executives and they’ll tell you that social’s role in travel extends well beyond inspiration. But what that means in practice differs across platforms. Hear how social facilitates connections in this session.
Panelists Sanjay Bhatia, Travel Industry Director, MetaKelly Covato, U.S. Head of Travel, Snap Inc.Gary Morrison, CEO, Hostelworld Plc
10:10 AM – 10:35 AM
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Executive Interview: A Sea Change - Technology and the Cruise Experience
Transforming guest experiences through technology and innovation has been a hallmark of this executive's career. Hear how he plans to enhance the ... [read more]
Transforming guest experiences through technology and innovation has been a hallmark of this executive's career. Hear how he plans to enhance the magic of cruises as the segment continues its magnificent recovery.
John Padgett, President, Princess CruisesInterviewer Mitra Sorrells, Editor in Chief, PhocusWire
10:40 AM – 11:00 AM
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Networking Break
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
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Breakouts
11:30 AM
-
12:00 PM
BNPL in Travel: How Flexible Payment Methods have Driven Incremental Revenue for Royal Caribbean Group Sponsored by: Affirm
Buy now, pay later (BNPL) has emerged as one of the fastest-growing payment methods globally, as consumers increasingly turn to more flexible and ... [read more]
Buy now, pay later (BNPL) has emerged as one of the fastest-growing payment methods globally, as consumers increasingly turn to more flexible and transparent ways to transact. This is especially true in travel, where Affirm has seen travel and ticketing make up 17% of Affirm’s purchase volume, growing nearly 50% YoY. In this session, Stacey Paul, Senior Director of Client Success at Affirm, speaks with Tony Medina, AVP of Ecommerce Operations at Royal Caribbean Group, about how financing has delivered increased spend and incremental customers for one of the world’s largest cruise operators.
Antonio Medina, AVP of Ecommerce Operations, Royal Caribbean GroupStacey Paul, Senior Director, Client Success, Affirm
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
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Tapping Real Travel Influence Sponsored by: Snapchat
Snapchat will be discussing how to leverage the power of creative, camera first storytelling to enhance your brand stories and drive measurable ... [read more]
Snapchat will be discussing how to leverage the power of creative, camera first storytelling to enhance your brand stories and drive measurable results. They'll be highlighting new creator strategies for fostering authentic connections with your travel brand. Snapchat's Head of Travel, Kelly Covato, will be joined on stage by Toby Korner, Senior Vice President of Digital Marketing at Priceline, to discuss the recent success they've seen partnering together leveraging the power of augmented reality and creator marketing.
Kelly Covato, U.S. Head of Travel, Snap Inc.Toby Korner, SVP, Digital Marketing, Priceline
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
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Industry Roundtables
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
12:15 PM
-
1:00 PM
Industry Roundtables

Participate in intimate, off-record curated roundtable discussions based on your business interests, moderated by industry experts and ... [read more]

Participate in intimate, off-record curated roundtable discussions based on your business interests, moderated by industry experts and Phocuswright analysts.



The roundtable discussions are an opportunity for you to get together with like-minded attendees and industry experts in an informal setting to examine issues as they relate to the table topic.



Learn More

12:15 PM – 1:00 PM
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Lunch
1:00 PM
-
2:00 PM
Networking Lunch Sponsored by: The Hertz Corporation
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
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Launch
2:00 PM
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4:05 PM
Welcome to Innovation: Launch
Innovation isn't just for startups - scaleups and established companies are also breaking new ground and developing new technologies. Launch ... [read more]
Innovation isn't just for startups - scaleups and established companies are also breaking new ground and developing new technologies. Launch demonstrators of all sizes use this spotlight to wow the audience and vie to win the People's Choice Award!
2:00 PM – 2:06 PM
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Ramp
2:06 PM – 2:15 PM
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Mobi Systems
2:15 PM – 2:24 PM
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TourReview
Elevate satisfaction, manage reviews, and increase sales with TourReview. Empower your biggest asset: the customer’s voice.
Elevate satisfaction, manage reviews, and increase sales with TourReview. Empower your biggest asset: the customer’s voice.
Presenter Jose Arozarena, CEO & Founder, TourReview
2:24 PM – 2:33 PM
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TerraPay Presenter Oliver Fellowes, GM Payments, TerraPay
2:33 PM – 2:42 PM
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VisaHQ
Learn about the game-changing power of AI on global mobility and immigration, as VisaHQ reveals its cutting-edge tech stack.
Learn about the game-changing power of AI on global mobility and immigration, as VisaHQ reveals its cutting-edge tech stack.
Presenter Oleg Naydonov, Executive Chairman, VisaHQ.com Inc.
2:42 PM – 2:51 PM
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Qtech Software
rePUSHTI is AI driven hotel booking re-verification service which delivers 100% results at 20% cost.
rePUSHTI is AI driven hotel booking re-verification service which delivers 100% results at 20% cost.
Presenter Rahul Kathet, Co-Founder, Qtech Software
2:51 PM – 3:00 PM
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BabyQuip
We will present “How to Better Serve Traveling Families” and discuss what families want and need to enjoy a better vacation and how BabyQuip can ... [read more]
We will present “How to Better Serve Traveling Families” and discuss what families want and need to enjoy a better vacation and how BabyQuip can help.
Presenter Fran Maier, CEO and Founder, BabyQuip
3:00 PM – 3:09 PM
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Justt
Justt opens up data-driven chargeback insights and win-rate optimization with its AI-based chargeback mitigation solution.
Justt opens up data-driven chargeback insights and win-rate optimization with its AI-based chargeback mitigation solution.
Presenter Roenen Ben-Ami, Co-founder and Chief Risk Officer, Justt.ai
3:09 PM – 3:18 PM
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Vacayou Presenter John Matson, President & COO, Vacayou Wellness Travel
3:18 PM – 3:27 PM
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ConnexPay
How ConnexPay can help OTAs become Merchant of Record and take back ownership of their business!
How ConnexPay can help OTAs become Merchant of Record and take back ownership of their business!
Presenter Bob Kaufman, Founder and CEO, ConnexPay
3:27 PM – 3:36 PM
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Weeva
We’re here to put a sustainability officer in the pocket of every hotelier, embedding generative AI to bring our always-on virtual assistant to ... [read more]
We’re here to put a sustainability officer in the pocket of every hotelier, embedding generative AI to bring our always-on virtual assistant to life.
Presenter James Lever, CTO, Weeva
3:36 PM – 3:45 PM
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Networking Break
3:45 PM – 4:05 PM
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Center Stage
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
4:05 PM
-
5:35 PM
Phocuswright Research: The State of Startups
What's up with startups? Analyzing how funding is holding up in 2023, highlighting regional and categorical trends, and what’s next.
What's up with startups? Analyzing how funding is holding up in 2023, highlighting regional and categorical trends, and what’s next.
Mike Coletta, Manager, Research and Innovation, Phocuswright Inc.
4:05 PM – 4:20 PM
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Executive Panel: The Boom is Dead. Long Live the Boom!
Just when investors were focusing on substance over hype, advances in AI seem ready to set off another boom cycle. Our panelists discuss funding ... [read more]
Just when investors were focusing on substance over hype, advances in AI seem ready to set off another boom cycle. Our panelists discuss funding innovation in the age of AI and balancing it with investing in the basics.
Panelists Amy Burr, President, JetBlue Technology VenturesKurien Jacob, Managing Director, Highgate Technology VenturesMia Morisset, Principal, InoviaModerator Mike Coletta, Manager, Research and Innovation, Phocuswright Inc.
4:20 PM – 4:45 PM
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Executive Panel: The Innovation Dilemma
Against the backdrop of evolving consumers and rapidly advancing technologies, two metasearch leaders discuss how they strive to stay ahead of the ... [read more]
Against the backdrop of evolving consumers and rapidly advancing technologies, two metasearch leaders discuss how they strive to stay ahead of the competition and meet/exceed traveler expectations.
Panelists John Mangelaars, CEO, SkyscannerJohannes Thomas, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, trivagoModerator Linda Fox, Senior Reporter, PhocusWire
4:45 PM – 5:10 PM
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Executive Interview: Going with the Flow
Maintaining momentum amid market uncertainty is not an easy task for travel marketers. Google shares its insights for staying nimble in a ... [read more]
Maintaining momentum amid market uncertainty is not an easy task for travel marketers. Google shares its insights for staying nimble in a changeable marketplace.
Susie Vowinkel, Managing Director, Travel, Google LLCInterviewer Pete Comeau, Managing Director, Phocuswright Inc.
5:15 PM – 5:35 PM
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Happy Hour
6:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Happy Hour Sponsored by: arrivia
Join us for drinks and enjoy networking with your fellow attendees, speakers, and the Phocuswright team!
Join us for drinks and enjoy networking with your fellow attendees, speakers, and the Phocuswright team!
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Add
Outdoor Party Sponsored by: Visit Lauderdale
Join our vibrant poolside gathering. Amid the mingling, connect and share insights and have fun while enjoying the open-air setting.
Join our vibrant poolside gathering. Amid the mingling, connect and share insights and have fun while enjoying the open-air setting.
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
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Wednesday November 15
Rise & Shine
7:00 AM
-
9:00 AM
Morning Yoga and Morning Run
Embrace the dawn and begin your day with a serene morning yoga session or a refreshing run along the scenic beachfront as the sun casts its first ... [read more]
Embrace the dawn and begin your day with a serene morning yoga session or a refreshing run along the scenic beachfront as the sun casts its first rays over the ocean.

Professionally guided by expert coaches, these activities are crafted to welcome participants of all skill levels. Seize this opportunity to forge meaningful connections with fellow speakers and attendees in an atmosphere of communal well-being.
7:00 AM – 7:45 AM
Add
Breakfast and Networking
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Add
All Day
8:00 AM
-
6:00 PM
Networking Showcase and Lounge, and Attendee Services Open
The showcase is open for business and abuzz with activity. Meet with innovators and exhibitors one-on-one! Need anything? Stop by Phocuswright ... [read more]
The showcase is open for business and abuzz with activity. Meet with innovators and exhibitors one-on-one! Need anything? Stop by Phocuswright Reception, the go-to spot for all your needs.
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Add
Center Stage
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
9:00 AM
-
1:00 PM
Phocuswright Research: The Sustainability Gap: Belief vs. Behavior
Experts believe that travelers will rally behind sustainable options, yet overtourism and carbon-heavy travel options abound. So where is the ... [read more]
Experts believe that travelers will rally behind sustainable options, yet overtourism and carbon-heavy travel options abound. So where is the disconnect? Phocuswright research is on the vanguard of understanding sustainable decision-making - the difference between what travelers say and what they do. Where are the real opportunities to inspire green behavior?
Madeline List, Senior Research Analyst, Phocuswright Inc.
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
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Executive Panel: Journey Interrupted (And Solutions For The Future)
The U.N.’s sustainability goals might kick in by 2050, but not before millions of trips are impacted by weather or natural disasters. These sorts ... [read more]
The U.N.’s sustainability goals might kick in by 2050, but not before millions of trips are impacted by weather or natural disasters. These sorts of disruptions will continue to be part of the traveler's experience – but they don’t have to be inevitable. Predictive technology and preventative measures can help travel businesses proactively help customers before and during a trip. Leading decision-makers discuss the best ways to address the immense challenges ahead.
Panelists Brian Davis, Chief Marketing Officer, Sun Country AirlinesPaul Weaver, Vice President, Global Digital Product Design, HyattModerators Charuta Fadnis, SVP, Research and Product Strategy, Phocuswright Inc.Jeffrey Katz, Founder and CEO, Journera
9:15 AM – 9:40 AM
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Five Minutes of Fame
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
9:40 AM – 9:45 AM
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Executive Interview: Taking Care of Business
There's been no time to rest since this veteran financier joined Expedia's C-suite at a time of unprecedented growth, challenges and innovation. So ... [read more]
There's been no time to rest since this veteran financier joined Expedia's C-suite at a time of unprecedented growth, challenges and innovation. So how does Expedia stay on solid ground despite marketplace pressures?
Julie Whalen, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Expedia GroupInterviewer Lorraine Sileo, Founder, Phocuswright Research and Senior Analyst, Phocuswright Inc.
9:45 AM – 10:05 AM
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Executive Panel: Airlines in Pursuit: Accelerating NDC
Airlines continue their carrot and stick approach with travel retailers while their quest to personalize and merchandise builds momentum. It's time ... [read more]
Airlines continue their carrot and stick approach with travel retailers while their quest to personalize and merchandise builds momentum. It's time to check in.
Panelists Neil Geurin, Managing Director, Airline Retailing, American Airlines Inc.Kathy Misunas, Founder & Principal, Essential IdeasKeith Wallis, Senior Director Distribution and Payments, Air CanadaModerator Norm Rose, Senior Technology and Corporate Market Analyst, Phocuswright Inc.
10:05 AM – 10:30 AM
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Executive Interview: Founders Keepers
It has been two decades since two friends revolutionized travel search and built a business with staying power. Hear their views on how things have ... [read more]
It has been two decades since two friends revolutionized travel search and built a business with staying power. Hear their views on how things have changed over the years and where future transformation lies!
Paul English, Founder, Deets.comSteve Hafner, CEO, KAYAKInterviewer Lorraine Sileo, Founder, Phocuswright Research and Senior Analyst, Phocuswright Inc.
10:35 AM – 11:00 AM
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Networking Break
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
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Executive Interview: On Top of the (Business Travel) World!
Exhilarating and exhausting aptly describe the last few years for business travel. Amid cyclical challenges, distribution shifts and competitive ... [read more]
Exhilarating and exhausting aptly describe the last few years for business travel. Amid cyclical challenges, distribution shifts and competitive pressures, what does the future of business travel look like from this global leader's vantage point?
Paul Abbott, CEO, American Express Global Business TravelInterviewer Charuta Fadnis, SVP, Research and Product Strategy, Phocuswright Inc.
11:30 AM – 11:50 AM
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Five Minutes of Fame
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
11:50 AM – 11:55 AM
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Executive Panel: Street Talk
Phocuswright's signature session dedicated to the intersection of finance, investment, M&A, IPOs and the world's largest industry - travel, ... [read more]
Phocuswright's signature session dedicated to the intersection of finance, investment, M&A, IPOs and the world's largest industry - travel, tourism and hospitality. Wall Street's leading analysts on digital, travel and hospitality share their perspectives on where the money, the market and its makers will go next.
Panelists Helane Becker, Managing Director, TD CowenNaved Khan, Managing Director, B. Riley SecuritiesMark Mahaney, Senior Managing Director, EvercoreModerator Jake Fuller, Managing Director and Digital Services Analyst, BTIG, LLC
11:55 AM – 12:20 PM
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Tech Talk: Coming Soon to a Doorstep Near You
After successfully launching in Ireland, this trailblazer is set to capture new markets.
After successfully launching in Ireland, this trailblazer is set to capture new markets.
Bobby Healy, CEO and Founder, Manna Drone Delivery
12:20 PM – 12:30 PM
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Executive Panel: Digital Identity Becomes Reality
The future is here when it comes to digital identity for travel, with the tiny island of Aruba a global leader in implementing this type of ... [read more]
The future is here when it comes to digital identity for travel, with the tiny island of Aruba a global leader in implementing this type of solution. What will this technology mean for border crossing, hotel check-in, entry to attractions and more broadly, how travel brands access customer data?
Panelists Heather Dahl, CEO, Indicio.techDangui Oduber, Minister of Tourism and Public Health, ArubaMichael Zureik, Director of Digital Identity, SITAModerator Robert Cole, Senior Research Analyst, Lodging and Leisure Travel, Phocuswright Inc.
12:35 PM – 1:00 PM
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Lunch
1:00 PM
-
2:00 PM
Networking Lunch Sponsored by: TURESPAÑA
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
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Center Stage
All times shown are EST (UTC -5).
2:00 PM
-
5:00 PM
Phocuswright's Hall of Fame
Recognizing their contributions to the industry, Phocuswright welcomes the newest inductees into its Hall of Fame.
Recognizing their contributions to the industry, Phocuswright welcomes the newest inductees into its Hall of Fame.
2:00 PM – 2:05 PM
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Executive Panel: Bridge Series - Improving Travel Through Human-Machine Collaboration
Travel enriches our souls and allows us to experience new places, cultures and traditions. Building off of the learnings from WiT’s Global Travel ... [read more]
Travel enriches our souls and allows us to experience new places, cultures and traditions. Building off of the learnings from WiT’s Global Travel Tech Thinktank, hear from leaders from across the world on how they are striking the right balance between technology and humans to improve all aspects of travel from planning to booking to the destination experience.
Panelists Schubert Lou, COO, Trip.comDamian Scokin, CEO, Despegar.com Inc.Moderators Pete Comeau, Managing Director, Phocuswright Inc.Siew Hoon Yeoh, Founder, WIT and Editorial Director, Northstar Travel Group Asia
2:05 PM – 2:35 PM
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Five Minutes of Fame
The winning pitch from Phocuswright and WiT's Global Startup Pitch!
The winning pitch from Phocuswright and WiT's Global Startup Pitch!
2:35 PM – 2:40 PM
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Executive Panel: AI - Exploits and Explanations
In theory AI will dramatically alter all aspects of travel, but in practice what have we really learned? Technology leaders share early results ... [read more]
In theory AI will dramatically alter all aspects of travel, but in practice what have we really learned? Technology leaders share early results with AI and the travel journey.
Panelists Tom Kershaw, Chief Product & Technology Officer, TravelportSanjay Mohan, CTO, MakeMyTripChristian Spannbauer, CTO Lufthansa Digital Hangar, Lufthansa GroupModerator Norm Rose, Senior Technology and Corporate Market Analyst, Phocuswright Inc.
2:40 PM – 3:05 PM
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Executive Panel: Super Connected
Combining multiple tasks into one app sounds convenient, but do customers want it? Businesses keep adding onto their apps in hopes of keeping ... [read more]
Combining multiple tasks into one app sounds convenient, but do customers want it? Businesses keep adding onto their apps in hopes of keeping customers on longer but does it really grow dollar share?
Panelists Guido Becher, Global Head of Travel, RappiLoren Kosloske, Head of Growth & New Products - Airports & Travel, UberModerator Mitra Sorrells, Editor in Chief, PhocusWire
3:05 PM – 3:30 PM
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Five Minutes of Fame
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
3:35 PM – 3:40 PM
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Executive Interview: Tours, Activities and Experiences: Aiming High
Tours, activities and experiences have long been seen as travel's next frontier for aggregation and consolidation. But despite a few notable ... [read more]
Tours, activities and experiences have long been seen as travel's next frontier for aggregation and consolidation. But despite a few notable successes, the sector remains stubbornly fragmented. CEOs of the two biggest marketplaces clear up misconceptions about the sector, why it is different to the rest of travel and what the future holds.
Ben Drew, President, ViatorJohannes Reck, CEO & Co-Founder, GetYourGuideInterviewer Douglas Quinby, CEO, Arival
3:40 PM – 4:05 PM
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Executive Panel: The Future of the Trip is Generative
Generative AI exploded into consumer consciousness and forced travel companies to accelerate their thinking on ways they could leverage the ... [read more]
Generative AI exploded into consumer consciousness and forced travel companies to accelerate their thinking on ways they could leverage the technology in the traveler journey. Leading travel and tech companies tell us how they see this transformation taking place.
Panelists Prashant Bhugra, Head of Travel, MicrosoftGilles Trantoul, VP Product Marketing and Portfolio Strategy, AmadeusModerator Robert Cole, Senior Research Analyst, Lodging and Leisure Travel, Phocuswright Inc.
4:05 PM – 4:30 PM
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Five Minutes of Fame
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
Hear from one of PhocusWire's Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2024.
4:30 PM – 4:35 PM
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Executive Interview: The Path Forward
They defied the pandemic with a business shift that favored fintech, but how can this aspirational travel leader build bookings to win over the ... [read more]
They defied the pandemic with a business shift that favored fintech, but how can this aspirational travel leader build bookings to win over the marketplace once and for all?
Frederic Lalonde, CEO & Co-Founder, Hopper Inc.Interviewer Siew Hoon Yeoh, Founder, WIT and Editorial Director, Northstar Travel Group Asia
4:40 PM – 5:00 PM
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Happy Hour
5:00 PM
-
6:00 PM
Happy Hour
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
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Thursday November 16
Professional Development
9:00 AM
-
1:00 PM
Meet the Phocuswright Research Team
Here’s your opportunity to speak with the analyst team and tell them what’s on your mind.

Breakfast is served starting at 9:00 am. ... [read more]
Here’s your opportunity to speak with the analyst team and tell them what’s on your mind.

Breakfast is served starting at 9:00 am. Meetings with Analysts start at 9:30 am.
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
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Meeting Rooms Available
Meeting rooms are available for anyone in need of a space to meet or work. No appointment necessary.
Meeting rooms are available for anyone in need of a space to meet or work. No appointment necessary.
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
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Note: All conference information (including program, speakers, etc.) is subject to change without notice.

November 13-16, 2023
Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood, Florida
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