TORONTO — ACTA is speaking out against Marriott’s commission cut with a statement from ACTA President Wendy Paradis condemning the move.

As reported on Jan. 19 Marriott is reducing the commission it pays on group bookings from 10% down to 7%, effective March 31, 2018.

Agency groups are sounding off against the cut, which applies to commissions earned on group bookings made by group and meetings intermediaries for all properties in the U.S. and Canada.

Paradis says: “ACTA shares the frustration of our members with Marriott’s decision to reduce travel agency commissions by 3% on group bookings within their Canadian and USA hotels and resorts.

“ACTA has been in contact with Marriott directly to express our concerns, and let them know we oppose this decision.

“We understand from Marriott’s communication that due to increasing financial demands in the group business model they needed to take a close look at finding cost savings to ensure this market remains sustainable.

“Travel agencies play a vital role in the group travel business and we are disappointed that Marriott has chosen to find cost savings through travel agency commission reductions.

“ACTA will continue to actively lobby for our travel agency members over the coming weeks towards a win/win solution with Marriott.”