Vincent says au revoir to Opodo

Despite building a very strong brand for Opodo in France, but less so in other European markets, Simon Vincent has quit for the top UK & Ireland job for Hilton Hotels.

Shock move? Yes, in terms of timing, with the busy booking season approaching... [He starts his new job in the New Year]

Although to some two years may not seem like a long time to remain at the top of the one of Europe's leading online travel agencies, but there is a "whiff of change" in the air [not our cliche, thankfully, but that of another leading figure in the OTA world].

Direct selling by suppliers is becoming more prevalent. European OTAs are going to continue losing their share of the online cake, according to PhoCusWright, over the next few years.

Perhaps it's the right time to get out?

Kevin May, editor, Travolution