Meetings and travel management company, Inntel, has announced the launch of real-time instant booking technology for venues through its LOGiC Meetings online booking tool.

Claiming an industry first, it says the technology means bookers can select meeting rooms nationwide and get full confirmation at the click of a button, in real time, 24/7.

Director of Operations and ESG, Anna Snoep, announced the launch at the TMC’s Inntel Solved Conference for clients and suppliers, which took place last week.

She voiced her long-held frustrations that you can book a £400 hotel room for the night in a few clicks in a matter of minutes but to book a simple meeting room for the day, the process for TMCs, clients and suppliers take hours or days – even though the value of the meeting room may be less than a bedroom booking.

With Instant Book, Inntel’s clients can search and book a small meeting for up to 20 attendees online at the click of a button.

The technology taps into an extensive directory of venues throughout the UK where users can check availability and rates, in real time, and avoid lengthy email exchanges and phone calls.

“I’ve tested it and done it in less than 90 seconds. This is the future for small meetings,” explained Snoep.

The TMC is planning a phased rollout to clients from November, launching fully in January 2025.

“We have been working on our own Instant Book solution for quite a while and I am so proud to share that this is now ready to be launched with our client base,” added Snoep.

“This means they can book small meetings in minutes while still using Inntel’s payment solutions in the secure environment of LOGiC Meetings. I look forward to seeing all the benefits this functionality will bring to our clients, suppliers and our organisation.‘’

The TMC is working closely with partners who have Instant Book enabled to provide live rates and availability and to ensure they have rich content on their listing.