From CDs to Clouds: Avantio’s Tech Evolution in Vacation Rentals

7/30/2024

In the latest episode of the VRMA Arrival Podcast, VRMA publications editor Alexa Schlosser interviews Tommy Ciaccio, head of business development for Avantio in the US and Canada. Ciaccio shares Avantio’s journey from its beginnings in Spain to its expansion into North American markets, highlighting their focus on innovation and local expertise.
 

Avantio, founded 22 years ago in Spain, successfully entered the US and Canadian markets about four years ago. This growth is attributed to hiring local experts who understand regional nuances and regulations.

Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com are key distribution channels. Avantio works closely with these OTAs to drive initial bookings, then focuses on converting them into direct bookings through optimized websites and a native channel manager. Ciaccio emphasizes the importance of high-quality photos, accurate descriptions, and a seamless, professional website to build trust with guests. Avantio ensures a consistent and secure booking experience that enhances guest confidence.

With the trend toward shorter lead times, Ciaccio highlights the need for dynamic pricing tools and data insights. Leveraging technology partners helps property managers stay competitive and maximize revenue. AI and data-driven decision-making are set to play crucial roles in the industry. Avantio continues to evolve, adding features like trust accounting and messaging integrations to meet market demands. Avantio’s “global but local” approach tailors services to different markets by employing local experts, ensuring relevance and effectiveness in diverse regions.