Mariana Gelardi on RateGain and AI Trends at Phocuswright Europe 2025
Mariana Gelardi, Vice President of Sales at RateGain, shared her insights from Phocuswright Europe 2025, held in Barcelona. With over ten years of experience in travel and hospitality technology, Gelardi leads RateGain’s sales and customer success teams as the company moves toward an AI-first approach.
At the event, Gelardi noted the strong presence of AI innovations and emphasized the need for the travel industry to adapt. “The traditional web search with blue links and AdWords is fading,” she explained. “AI-driven chatbots and search functions are changing how marketing works, and businesses must prepare for this shift.”
Key Innovations and Industry Shifts
Gelardi pointed out that while new AI tools emerge constantly, the bigger change lies in how users search and interact online. Travel agents currently hold an advantage due to their established brand presence and keyword associations that feed AI systems. However, she stressed that hoteliers need to keep pace with these changes to remain competitive.
About RateGain
Founded 20 years ago in India, RateGain has expanded globally with teams across the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East. Gelardi described RateGain as a fast-moving company with three main pillars:
- Marketing Technology: Enhancing brand marketing efforts
- Connectivity: Linking partners and hoteliers
- Data: Providing the foundation for AI-driven solutions
The combination of these elements creates a cycle that drives business growth and innovation.
Global Growth and Future Directions
RateGain has grown exponentially through acquisitions and expanding its international footprint. Gelardi highlighted the company’s commitment to integrating AI solutions that improve travel marketing, distribution, and customer experiences.
Phocuswright Europe 2025 offered a platform for industry professionals to explore how generative AI and autonomous technologies are shaping travel. The event theme, “The New Age(nts),” focused on AI’s role in personalizing itineraries and enhancing distribution channels.
Looking Ahead
For hospitality and events professionals, staying informed on AI advancements is crucial. Tools that combine marketing, connectivity, and data will define competitive advantage. Travel agents benefit from their keyword strategies today, but hoteliers and other players must innovate to maintain relevance.
For those interested in developing AI skills applicable to the hospitality sector, exploring practical courses on Complete AI Training can provide valuable knowledge and tools.
About Phocuswright Europe 2025
The conference took place from June 10–12 at the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya in Barcelona. It gathered leaders to discuss AI’s impact on travel marketing, distribution, and in-destination experiences. RateGain’s presence underscored its focus on AI-driven solutions and data-centric strategies shaping the industry’s future.
Your membership also unlocks:
