Amadeus announced it is developing a new Global Merchandising System that will "enable airlines to create their offering dynamically,"

tailor deals and services to various customer segments and sell all types of ancillary and fare content through both direct and indirect channels. Amadeus plans to integrate the merchandizing platform with its Altea passenger services system, which powers airline websites, but noted it also will be made available to non-Altea users. The merchandizing system also will feed into global distribution systems, giving agencies and other subscribers access to "enhanced airline content at the point of sale." Amadeus sees a huge revenue opportunity for airlines. "Industry estimates show that airlines are already earning $50 billion in annual revenues through the sale of ancillary services, primarily through their direct channels," according to a company announcement. "Amadeus research indicates that a further $53 billion could be secured by 2020 by adopting an omni-channel strategy for these ancillary sales." Amadeus expects the merchandizing system to be "connectivity-agnostic," anticipating compatibility with the International Air Transport Association's New Distribution Capability XML standard and other content distribution methods. A launch date was not immediately disclosed.