ABTA set to launch direct debit system

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

ABTA has decided to launch a replacement version of its Single Payment System to members later this year. The technology has been developed by Travel Ledger. The direct debit system allows fast online payments between travel agents and tour operators. Transactions are consolidated by the payment scheme, so that each week only a single payment is made in or out of each member’s bank account.

Under the new, more efficient scheme ABTA members will have control over their payments, not only who they transact with, but also by facilitating deposit and balance payments from travel agents to tour operators, and refunds from operators to agents. Over time, members who join the scheme will have the opportunity to process payments more frequently with the potential for more than the one cycle per week that the current scheme allows.

After evaluating multiple systems, ABTA chose to partner with Travel Ledger because of its technology knowhow and understanding of the travel industry. The new system has been tested by ABTA member focus groups over the last few months, allowing Members to review and refine the scheme and ensure it work for their requirements. It will use the same process as on the older platform, to avoid disruption to existing users’ back-office functions.

Travel Ledger is an electronic invoice and remittance system which is connected to UK and European banking for easy and secure payments between travel buyers and suppliers, providing secure transaction processing and reconciliation.

Once live, Travel Ledger will provide user and technical support to ABTA Members, who will be able to review their own data, as well as identify potential problems with transactions in advance, before payments are authorised or transactions fail – making the system more risk-free for all parties.

John de Vial, Special Adviser, ABTA said in a statement that the new scheme will use the latest technology to allow fast, accurate and secure consolidated payments and refunds. He said that the organisation is confident that it will greatly support users’ businesses and make payments easier.

Roberto De Ra, Founder, Travel Ledger said in a statement that having tested the Travel Ledger system successfully with a large focus group of ABTA members, the company is delighted to offer the system across the entire ABTA membership in the coming weeks and look forward to fruitful collaboration with the organization.

« Back to Page

• ABTA and Seasonal Businesses in Travel Support Youth Mobility Agreement Between United Kingdom and European Commission

• ABTA urges travellers to strictly follow current hand luggage rules

• ABTA and RHA Join Forces to Strengthen Coach Travel Industry Benefits

• Two Million Brits to Embark on Easter Getaways, ABTA Reports Unprecedented Global travel Demand for Overseas Holidays

• ABTA Invites You to Experience the Best of Greece at the 2024 Travel Convention in Costa Navarino