Starwood Launches Travel Agent Program

Starwood Hotels & Resorts on Monday unveiled StarwoodPro, a global program and new way for travel agents to conduct business with the hotel operator. The first prong of the program is a new web site, which focuses on five pillars of information: access, knowledge, rewards, compensation and communication. The site delivers accessible content as well as news on deals, rates and product information covering all nine brands. There is even a "click to call" feature. "We are going to be delivering tools where agents will be able to develop their business and skill sets," said Chris Austin, Starwood's vice president global customer partnerships, leisure and luxury sales. "Training and development should have content that is about them. We created a focused program, which gives agents the opportunity to learn about the brands. It will help drive greater business." Visit [www.starwoodpro.com].