Travelocity debuts branded toolbarApril 24, 2009

Travelocity has debuted a new branded downloadable toolbar, in a move to reach consumers in an interactive way.

The toolbar, which was designed by Web services firm Conduit, lets consumers access Travelocity travel services and deals directly on their desktop. The strategy behind the new offering is to make it easier for the travel site to connect with consumers in this tough economy.

“We are hoping to stay top-of-mind to consumers and help them find the latest deals and the top deals that we have,” said Patricia Lestig, online advertising lead at Travelocity.  “We are trying to make it more accessible for bargain hunters to find travel deals and make it more convenient for them to book travel.”

The toolbar offers special discount codes, top deals and a live travel ticker, as well as a direct line to communicate with Travelocity customer service.

“It ties into our overall marketing strategy, as we pride ourselves in customer service,” said Lestig.

The toolbar also is designed to be a functional travel tool, as it lets users check-in for flights booked through Travelocity, check weather, compare currency conversion and find driving directions in a destination town.

Consumers are offered incentives to download the toolbar through exclusive promotional offer codes. This month it is a $50 off a trip to Las Vegas code, but this will be updated on a regular basis after April.

To promote the new toolbar, Travelocity is using e-mail, search, banner ads and social media to get the word out.