TOURISM MANAGEMENT

Agent or merchant? Unpacking hotel-OTA selling formats with differential games

Ma, Shigui; Gu, Ran; Liang, Sai; Yang, Yang

Abstract

This study examines the interplay of power structures and selling formats in hotel-OTA partnerships using a differential game approach. We analyze optimal decision-making across four distinct scenarios, each defined by different combinations of selling formats and power dynamics. Our models derive equilibrium solutions, highlighting the effects on pricing, quality management effort, digital technology investment, consumer demand, room quality, and overall profitability. Numerical analysis validates these insights, offering practical managerial implications. Results show that hotels favor agency selling formats when consumers are price-sensitive, while OTAs prefer merchant formats. A stronger power position leads to higher profitability, while rising consumer expectations for room quality drives hotels to invest more in quality improvements. These insights offer actionable guidance for enhancing strategic decision-making and optimizing profits in a competitive market.

Keywords

Online travel agency; Power structures; Selling format choice; Online decisions; Differential game

Research topic

Digital Platform and Pricing

Research method

Econometrics

Geographic area

US

AI Audio Overview

AI Infographic

Additional links for this paper

ResearchGate

Publisher Website

Web of Science

HOW TO CITE

Additional Reads

2026

Comparative Advantage

Theories and Models in Tourism and Hospitality Research

2026

Customer gratitude and employee work behaviors

TOURISM MANAGEMENT

2026

Together through thick and thin: How does the survival of neighboring restaurants matter?

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT