Description
Passionnate about car rental company transformation in yield management, Emmanuel Scuto interviews the industry experts to put the light on revenue management.
Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Description
Passionnate about car rental company transformation in yield management, Emmanuel Scuto interviews the industry experts to put the light on revenue management.
Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
37 episodes
Season 3


Pascal Niffoi's journey in revenue management began after studying mathematics, leading him to an initial experience in flow management before transitioning to Air France in 2000. He described Air France as the "Champions League" of revenue management, providing a strong foundation in a well-established system. His desire for more rapid change led him to Disney, where he encountered a less integrated approach with separate pricing and yield departments, and a focus on country of origin rather than contribution. At Disney, Niffoi focused on integrating pricing and yield, re-segmenting demand by contribution, and expanding the scope of revenue management. However, organizational resistance to these changes ultimately contributed to his departure. Subsequently, at Pierre & Vacances, Niffoi took on a leadership role, aiming to modernize revenue management practices and implement dynamic pricing. Despite support for these initiatives, progress was slower than desired due to technical and organizational factors, leading to his decision to co-found Revbell. Through Revbell, Niffoi advocates for a holistic view of revenue management, emphasizing revenue integrity – ensuring that the revenue intended from a sale is actually realized by addressing issues like unapplied fees or incorrect commissions. He also stresses the importance of using intrinsic KPIs that directly measure the effectiveness of revenue management levers, rather than solely focusing on overall occupancy, average price, and revenue. Niffoi's diverse experiences have shaped his perspective on the evolution of revenue management, highlighting the importance of foundational principles, holistic integration, data-driven decisions, and effective change management. He emphasizes continuous learning through exposure to diverse client problems and the value of intellectual honesty. Chapter 00:05:38 Introduction to Pascal Niffoi and his mathematic background and Air France structural experience 00:11:19 Niffoi's move to Disney highlighting the separation of pricing and yield. 00:28:07 Niffoi's time at Pierre & Vacances as the head of revenue management and the the transition to founding Revbell (originally NandC) with Romain Charié 00:34:05 - Discussion on the concept of revenue integrity References Shared: L'entreprise, une affaire de cœur by Hubert Joly. The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h44 | Published on April 26, 2025


Are you navigating the complex world of revenue management and distribution in the car rental? This week, we’re joined by industry veteran Mark Richards, who brings decades of experience in the car rental sector to the Revenue Machine. Mark shares his unique insights on the evolution of the car rental market, from the rise of online travel agents to the emergence of new affiliation programs. Discover how the tier one legacy brands have adapted to market changes and how tier two players are now making waves. - Tier one car rental companies : Avis Budget Group, Hertz-Dollar-Thrifty, Sixt, Enterprise-National-Alamo, Europcar-Goldcar - Tier two : Ace, AutoUnion, Autowill, Carwiz, GreenMotion, NP Autos (Priceless, NextCars), SurpriceCars, etc Mark discusses the challenges of brand loyalty, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the potential game-changers in urban mobility. For him, the subscription model is a way to improve the usage of car rental and strengthen the loyalty of customers to the brand. He also gives tips for independent car rental companies on choosing the right affiliation programs, and he shares his vision for the future of car rental and its relationship with technology and emerging trends. Whether you're a car rental expert or a revenue manager in another industry, you'll gain valuable perspectives that will help you to **optimize your business strategies and stay ahead of the competition**. Don't miss this episode! Chapter 0:00:00 Introduction and Background Mark Richards shares his career journey in the car rental industry 0:09:30 The "mushroom" period Includes analysis of the "mushroom" period of new brokers and how legacy brands initially reacted. 0:35:10 The Emergence of Tier Two Brands and Affiliation 0:43:15 Tip of Mark to select an affiliation program 0:55:50 A look at what the future of car rental networks and OEM's 1:08:30 Continuous learning in a rapidly changing business environment Reference WeYield Forum 2025 in London https://www.weyield.io/events/weyield-forum-london-2025-wtm Thomas Cook car hire https://www.thomascook.com/extras/car-hire Starcar https://www.starcar.de/en/ Sani Car https://sani.co.za/ Localiza https://www.localiza.com/others/en-us Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h23 | Published on February 23, 2025


« My best way of learning is to fail» This document is an interview with Eduardo Hernandez, the commercial manager at KeyGo Rent in Alicante. He discusses his career transition from the ceramic tile industry during 20 years to the car rental industry. Hernandez explains that pricing in the ceramic tile industry is relatively straightforward, with price lists lasting for a year and prices remaining stable. He contrasts this with the car rental business, which is much more dynamic, with prices fluctuating rapidly based on demand and market conditions. Hernandez emphasizes the importance of having a separate pricing department to manage pricing strategy and optimize revenue. « Used cars are like fishes: the more you keep them on the parking lot, the more it smells ». He also discusses the significance of building a strong direct sales channel (35% of sales through the company's website generating double RPD), in addition to working with brokers. Hernandez highlights the need for efficiency in the car rental business, focusing on fleet management and pricing strategies to maximize profitability with the highest customer review possible (4,5). His yield management success factors are : define a strategy, set the good fleet (not to much) accordingly, price according to demand not to competition. The key element is to be efficient. He also touches on the impact of technology and automation in the car rental industry, emphasizing the continued importance of human oversight and decision-making to boost the profitability of the company. The interview concludes with Hernandez sharing his personal philosophy and approach to business, emphasizing the importance of strategy, adaptability, and continuous learning. Eduardo shared his personal philosophy of continuous learning and drawing parallels between golf and life. Chapters 0:00:00 Info about the major flood hit Valencia in October 24 (120000 cars destroyed) 0:09:10 introduction of Eduardo Hernandez who transitioned from the ceramic tile industry to the automobile and car rental industry. 0:15:30 Pricing difference between a tile business and car rental 0:30:30 How to improve utilization with a central pricing approach 0:47:20 Why quality in price and customer satisfaction is more important than a volume-only business 1:01:00 Key success factors generated by the yield management approach : change the way things are done and fight the resistance 1:25:00 How to learn more about yourself and the other while playing golf References https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardohernandezmartin/ Key Go rent https://www.keygorent.com/es/principal/index Dataseeker https://www.dataseekers.com/en/ WeYield https://www.weyield.io/ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h37 | Published on January 20, 2025
Season 2


The podcast interview features Samuel Francisco, a revenue manager with a unique background in molecular biology (PHD): quite unique isn’t it? Samuel transitioned into the business world, applying his research skills and analytical mindset to optimize revenue for various ventures, starting with Airbnbs in the Azores, then hotels and the car rental. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, open-mindedness, and strategic partnerships. Samuel discusses his approach to revenue optimization, focusing on operational efficiency, pricing strategies, and ancillary services. He highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics, competitor analysis, and adapting strategies to different industries. He also emphasized the importance of the time needed for his interlocutors to nurture new ideas before accepting and implementing them. Samuel also shares his experience implementing revenue management systems and building a successful website for a hotel group (putting his direct website as number source of reservation), emphasizing the importance of user-friendly interfaces and data-driven decision-making. The conversation concludes with Samuel's personal insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of work-life balance, and his dedication to creating inclusive tourism experiences for families with autistic children. Chapter 0:00:00 Samuel Francisco and his doctorate in molecular biology 0:11:30 how Samuel started his career in tourism with Airbnb coming from the scientific world 0:25:10 adopt a new mindset and switch to hospitality to improve performance 0:48:25 how to work with partners who can transform us 1:02:10 duplicating the model from hotel to car was a challenge 1:22:10 caring for autism in the family and community Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h35 | Published on December 16, 2024


For me, this is a crucial question: how can I improve my performance in a highly competitive environment? This question is often asked by fairly experienced customers who have a good knowledge of their market. Yet they feel frustrated by the difficulty of increasing their average price (RPD) without touching the price, which is too closely scrutinized by competitors. The conversation brought to you today summarizes an article written by Emmanuel Scuto, founder of WeYield and a revenue machinist for almost 25 years in the car rental industry. In this podcast, we aim to share with you the observed constraints and the solutions we've come up with at WeYield. Note: these recommendations are aimed at rental companies who are in direct competition on the same site. They are located in airports, car rental centers or train stations. Definition: demand is considered inelastic or rigid when the sales volume or conversion rate does not fall in the face of a price increase (or a high price). Demand becomes elastic when it is highly sensitive to any price variation. This conversation has been generated by the AI NotebookLM.google.com (beta) and it is based on Emmanuel Scuto's article published on https://www.weyield.io/blog-posts/tip-how-to-increase-rpd-without-increasing-prices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
11min | Published on October 12, 2024


« I wake up every morning believing that I do not know much » Montgomery Blair, a seasoned expert in revenue management, emphasizes continuous learning and innovation. With a strong background in data science and analytics, he pioneered the implementation of a revenue management system for Dollar Rent A Car in the late 1990s, revolutionizing leisure pricing based on demand forecasting. At Avis Budget Group, Montgomery advanced their Revenue Management system, integrating fleet management and corporate contracts into the optimization process. He highlights the importance of balancing dynamic pricing with corporate flat rates to maximize profitability, noting that losing low-rate corporate accounts can often lead to higher overall returns by freeing up availability for higher-paying customers. Montgomery underscores the need for internal collaboration, suggesting that the real competition often lies within the organization, between departments managing different segments. He advises focusing on maximizing contractual segments before optimizing discretionary pricing. In the car rental industry, Montgomery advocates for leveraging supply flexibility, driving cost efficiency, and making smarter data-driven decisions. He stresses the importance of correctly defining problems and accurately measuring performance, particularly in fleet decisions. Lastly, he encourages professionals to embrace innovation, take calculated risks, and stay engaged through industry conferences to drive significant advancements. Chapter 0:00:00 introduction of Montgomery Blair starting in car rental late 1990’s 0:29:30 what are the key dimensions to look at in RM 0:40:10 The overall level of fleet 0:51:25 AI and measuring performance 1:03:10 Should duration band pricing be stopped? 1:08:10 How to share analytics in a digest format References It’s your ship from Captain Michael Abrashoff Principles of economics by Alfred Marshall Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h45 | Published on September 2, 2024


Welcome to a new episode of the podcast Revenue Machine, the only one dedicated to Revenue Management. Today, Emmanuel Scuto interviews Romain Charié. Romain, co-founder of the consulting firm N&C, initially pursued studies in aeronautics before specializing in business-oriented data analysis. His experience at Air France allowed him to combine his two passions. Although the airline has sophisticated processes and tools, human intervention remains essential for decision-making. Excessive automation can lead to a loss of control over tools and analysis. One of the advantages of an RMS (Revenue Management System) is its speed and depth of analysis. However, when external factors disrupt the model (weather, strikes, security risks, etc.), the analyst must take over. For example, seasonality is never identical from one year to the next, requiring a flexible approach to analysis. At Air France, Romain compiled all documents and procedures related to optimization techniques into a White Paper, which became the bible for every revenue manager, ensuring a consistent approach to analysis. In the car rental sector, where stock uncertainty makes precise forecasting impossible, Romain found that grouping cars into broad categories was sufficient to achieve accurate probability assessments. His last corporate experience was within the Revenue Development team at Disneyland Paris, where the existing forecasting tool was ultimately ill-suited to the evolving booking behaviors of clients. Since 2014, Romain has partnered with Pascal Niffoi, with whom he worked at Air France and Disneyland Paris, to establish their consulting firm focused on optimization. They believe an analyst must always understand why a tool made a recommendation. They observed two reactions to their RMS Revbell: complete acceptance or rejection in favor of the more familiar Excel. To enhance RM analysts' skills, they offer checklists and procedures. As passionate professionals, Romain and Pascal also aim to explain the levers of price action in the media. Regardless of the industry, they believe that volume is a key factor in profitability, even before the pursuit of average price. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h25 | Published on September 2, 2024


With over 30 years of experience in Revenue Management (RM) at Dollar-Thrifty and Hertz, primarily serving franchisees, I have witnessed the evolution of the industry. I began my journey when Travelocity emerged as the first online travel agency, predating Expedia. This period marked a significant shift as pricing became a critical factor in customer decision-making with the advent of the internet in the early 2000s. At Dollar, our IT manager developed a separate tool to manage prices independently from the regular reservation system, which was groundbreaking at the time. Car rental licensees reacted differently to RM shift. Some were progressive and open to new strategies to enhance competitiveness, while others were primarily concerned with costs. A portion of the licensees initially struggled to grasp the importance of these changes. Over time, customers have been conditioned to search for the best rates, necessitating a disciplined approach to fleet management to influence better booking behaviors. During peak seasons, despite high prices, people continue to travel, indicating that car rental costs are not a major factor in destination choices. Fleet management decisions, such as opting for purchase options that lead to over-fleeting, can impact revenue. Initially, Dollar acted as an outsourced revenue manager with limited information about the fleet. A framework was established between licensees and the RM team at headquarters to create a pricing corridor, allowing flexibility without requiring rental operator approval for each price change. Trust built over months and years led internal clients to consult the RM team on broader issues beyond pure RM topics. High-level performance in car rental necessitates a solid foundation and daily discipline. It begins with accurately calculating the usable fleet available each day, monitoring no-show rates by day of the week, tracking reservation trends, and analyzing competitor behavior. Manual rate monitoring is inefficient; daily RM practices are vital. When uncertain, revenue managers should test their hypotheses, as the results can sometimes be surprising and significantly impact yield. The presence of players making illogical pricing decisions can disrupt the entire market. Conversely, systematic yield management by key players benefits the market as a whole. To enhance processes, trying new methods or features that promise better results is encouraged. However, mastering the fundamentals and practicing them consistently is crucial for success. Simply pressing buttons or expecting a system to work magic will not suffice. Maximizing revenue opportunities requires a strategic approach distinct from operational decisions. A revenue manager equipped with the right tools and strong fundamentals can make optimized decisions regarding "when, where, and what" actions to take, even in unexpected situations. This ability to adapt and optimize in real-time is both challenging and rewarding. In summary, effective revenue management in car rental is an investment that pays off through consistent, disciplined practices and a willingness to embrace innovation while maintaining a strong grasp of the basics. This approach ensures that revenue opportunities are maximized and the business remains competitive and profitable. Chapter 00:00:00 Introduction of Andy, how did the RM start at Dollar 00:13:10 Beginning of the pricing by duration and check-out 00:23:30 Reaction of licensees confronted to the revenue management project 00:30:30 Summer pricing, car dealers: influence factors 00:38:40 Process to onboard a licensee in the Central RM 01:00:00 Advices on best practices 01:16:20 Market benefits of all car rental implementing yield management properly 01:20:10 Andy’s vision about the future mobility like peer-to-peer 01:28:20 RM fundamentals of the job Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h44 | Published on June 25, 2024


"identifier les attributs de valoriser avant d'agir sur les prix" Quand la tactique consiste à simplement augmenter les prix, le risque est de venir heurter la valeur perçue par le client et de ne pas atteindre les résultats globaux. Sur le marché du pneu automobile, la concurrence est intense. Mais la perception premium par le client permet d'avoir une différence prix forte par rapport à la concurrence. Pour réussir, il est essentiel de se pencher sur les attributs de valorisation : ce qui différencie par rapport à la concurrence mais qui est valorisé par le consommateur pour être converti en prix. Tester la perception prix permet de mesurer l'élasticité des clients au prix : un changement de prix ne coûte rien, est facile et très rapide à mettre en oeuvre. L'augmentation des prix n'enclenche pas forcément une fuite du volume lorsque le produit et la marques sont supportés par le marketing et la communication associée via les attributs de valorisation. Une cartographie de ces attributs prend seulement quelques semaines. Cela peut être fait en interne La promotion n'est pas du pricing mais un mécanisme commercial de simulation temporaire de la demande habillé par le marketing. Un outil pricing est une option pour simuler l'élasticité de prix. Pour être efficace, il doit être contrôler par un pricer. Il y a toujours quelqu'un qui va prendre une décision sur le prix mais c'est malheureusement rarement une fonction dédiée. La verticalité du prix permet gérer une différenciation fine. L'exemple du pricing Décathlon est est une référence dans le domaine. Segmenter l'offre permet d'offre plus de service associé au prix. Le gain possible est entre +3 et +8% de marge. Les aptitudes pour être un bon revenue management : aimer la data, la manipuler, la formater tout en sachant prendre du recul pour garder à l'esprit comment la décision va être interpréter par le client sur le marché cible. Chapitre 00:00:00 présentation d'Alexandre 00:17:50 Rester customer centric et les attributs de valeur 00:30:10 Tester la perception en jouant avec les prix 00:40:10 Comment réaliser des tests d'attributs de valorisation 00:52:40 Attention à l'impact de la promotion permanente 00:58:04 A quoi sert un outil pricing 01:08:00 Pourquoi la fonction prix est-elle si peu développée 01:14:00 L'exemple du pricing chez Decathlon 01:27:50 Comment devenir un bon pricer 01:39:01 Le challenge pricing d'Alexandre Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h42 | Published on May 8, 2024


"The only element between you and the success you crave is yourself" Episode abstract 1/ System-Mind Synergy: Explore optimizing the synergy between our systems and mental faculties for peak performance. 2/ Adapting to Volatility: Uncover strategies for maximizing mental agility amidst extreme market volatility and uncertainty. 3/ Harnessing Past Experience: Evaluate how leveraging past experiences can bolster our resilience and adaptability to embrace discomfort and change effectively. 4/ Cultivating a New Mindset: Implement actionable tactics to cultivate and embed a growth-oriented mindset, fostering innovation and adaptability in dynamic environments. Adrian, with over 15 years of experience in car rental in Ireland working for Enterprise and Sixt in various capacities such as Operations, Channel Management, and Sales, understands the pivotal role car rental operations play in serving customers, often being their initial point of contact after long flights. Transitioning from the bustling front office to the quiet back office was initially jarring for him, prompting introspection about his career path. He delves into the power of thought, citing statistics that reveal how people's thoughts shape their realities. Adrian advocates for conscious reprogramming of the subconscious mind to foster positive change gradually, emphasizing the mind's inability to distinguish between reality and imagination. He urges professionals to focus on their own businesses rather than fixating on competitors, stressing the importance of recognizing one's unique value proposition. Adrian encourages embracing change incrementally, acknowledging that personal growth necessitates accepting failure and experimenting with resilient, profitable ventures. He outlines three types of goals—A, B, and C—highlighting the significance of pursuing goals driven by burning desires. Visualizing success mentally is underscored as a potent tool in achieving these objectives. In essence, Adrian advocates for a proactive mindset, strategic focus, and a willingness to evolve in the dynamic car rental industry. Chapter 00:00:00 Adrian Treacy introduction 00:19:20 How the mindset approach got started 00:34:30 Revenue management and mindset 00:47:14 Setting a new paradygm, our new mental software 00:53:45 How to overcome fear as a driver not to start 01:13:14 3 types of goals A, B, C till the end Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h37 | Published on April 1, 2024
Description
Passionnate about car rental company transformation in yield management, Emmanuel Scuto interviews the industry experts to put the light on revenue management.
Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
37 episodes
Season 3


Pascal Niffoi's journey in revenue management began after studying mathematics, leading him to an initial experience in flow management before transitioning to Air France in 2000. He described Air France as the "Champions League" of revenue management, providing a strong foundation in a well-established system. His desire for more rapid change led him to Disney, where he encountered a less integrated approach with separate pricing and yield departments, and a focus on country of origin rather than contribution. At Disney, Niffoi focused on integrating pricing and yield, re-segmenting demand by contribution, and expanding the scope of revenue management. However, organizational resistance to these changes ultimately contributed to his departure. Subsequently, at Pierre & Vacances, Niffoi took on a leadership role, aiming to modernize revenue management practices and implement dynamic pricing. Despite support for these initiatives, progress was slower than desired due to technical and organizational factors, leading to his decision to co-found Revbell. Through Revbell, Niffoi advocates for a holistic view of revenue management, emphasizing revenue integrity – ensuring that the revenue intended from a sale is actually realized by addressing issues like unapplied fees or incorrect commissions. He also stresses the importance of using intrinsic KPIs that directly measure the effectiveness of revenue management levers, rather than solely focusing on overall occupancy, average price, and revenue. Niffoi's diverse experiences have shaped his perspective on the evolution of revenue management, highlighting the importance of foundational principles, holistic integration, data-driven decisions, and effective change management. He emphasizes continuous learning through exposure to diverse client problems and the value of intellectual honesty. Chapter 00:05:38 Introduction to Pascal Niffoi and his mathematic background and Air France structural experience 00:11:19 Niffoi's move to Disney highlighting the separation of pricing and yield. 00:28:07 Niffoi's time at Pierre & Vacances as the head of revenue management and the the transition to founding Revbell (originally NandC) with Romain Charié 00:34:05 - Discussion on the concept of revenue integrity References Shared: L'entreprise, une affaire de cœur by Hubert Joly. The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h44 | Published on April 26, 2025


Are you navigating the complex world of revenue management and distribution in the car rental? This week, we’re joined by industry veteran Mark Richards, who brings decades of experience in the car rental sector to the Revenue Machine. Mark shares his unique insights on the evolution of the car rental market, from the rise of online travel agents to the emergence of new affiliation programs. Discover how the tier one legacy brands have adapted to market changes and how tier two players are now making waves. - Tier one car rental companies : Avis Budget Group, Hertz-Dollar-Thrifty, Sixt, Enterprise-National-Alamo, Europcar-Goldcar - Tier two : Ace, AutoUnion, Autowill, Carwiz, GreenMotion, NP Autos (Priceless, NextCars), SurpriceCars, etc Mark discusses the challenges of brand loyalty, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the potential game-changers in urban mobility. For him, the subscription model is a way to improve the usage of car rental and strengthen the loyalty of customers to the brand. He also gives tips for independent car rental companies on choosing the right affiliation programs, and he shares his vision for the future of car rental and its relationship with technology and emerging trends. Whether you're a car rental expert or a revenue manager in another industry, you'll gain valuable perspectives that will help you to **optimize your business strategies and stay ahead of the competition**. Don't miss this episode! Chapter 0:00:00 Introduction and Background Mark Richards shares his career journey in the car rental industry 0:09:30 The "mushroom" period Includes analysis of the "mushroom" period of new brokers and how legacy brands initially reacted. 0:35:10 The Emergence of Tier Two Brands and Affiliation 0:43:15 Tip of Mark to select an affiliation program 0:55:50 A look at what the future of car rental networks and OEM's 1:08:30 Continuous learning in a rapidly changing business environment Reference WeYield Forum 2025 in London https://www.weyield.io/events/weyield-forum-london-2025-wtm Thomas Cook car hire https://www.thomascook.com/extras/car-hire Starcar https://www.starcar.de/en/ Sani Car https://sani.co.za/ Localiza https://www.localiza.com/others/en-us Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h23 | Published on February 23, 2025


« My best way of learning is to fail» This document is an interview with Eduardo Hernandez, the commercial manager at KeyGo Rent in Alicante. He discusses his career transition from the ceramic tile industry during 20 years to the car rental industry. Hernandez explains that pricing in the ceramic tile industry is relatively straightforward, with price lists lasting for a year and prices remaining stable. He contrasts this with the car rental business, which is much more dynamic, with prices fluctuating rapidly based on demand and market conditions. Hernandez emphasizes the importance of having a separate pricing department to manage pricing strategy and optimize revenue. « Used cars are like fishes: the more you keep them on the parking lot, the more it smells ». He also discusses the significance of building a strong direct sales channel (35% of sales through the company's website generating double RPD), in addition to working with brokers. Hernandez highlights the need for efficiency in the car rental business, focusing on fleet management and pricing strategies to maximize profitability with the highest customer review possible (4,5). His yield management success factors are : define a strategy, set the good fleet (not to much) accordingly, price according to demand not to competition. The key element is to be efficient. He also touches on the impact of technology and automation in the car rental industry, emphasizing the continued importance of human oversight and decision-making to boost the profitability of the company. The interview concludes with Hernandez sharing his personal philosophy and approach to business, emphasizing the importance of strategy, adaptability, and continuous learning. Eduardo shared his personal philosophy of continuous learning and drawing parallels between golf and life. Chapters 0:00:00 Info about the major flood hit Valencia in October 24 (120000 cars destroyed) 0:09:10 introduction of Eduardo Hernandez who transitioned from the ceramic tile industry to the automobile and car rental industry. 0:15:30 Pricing difference between a tile business and car rental 0:30:30 How to improve utilization with a central pricing approach 0:47:20 Why quality in price and customer satisfaction is more important than a volume-only business 1:01:00 Key success factors generated by the yield management approach : change the way things are done and fight the resistance 1:25:00 How to learn more about yourself and the other while playing golf References https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardohernandezmartin/ Key Go rent https://www.keygorent.com/es/principal/index Dataseeker https://www.dataseekers.com/en/ WeYield https://www.weyield.io/ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h37 | Published on January 20, 2025
Season 2


The podcast interview features Samuel Francisco, a revenue manager with a unique background in molecular biology (PHD): quite unique isn’t it? Samuel transitioned into the business world, applying his research skills and analytical mindset to optimize revenue for various ventures, starting with Airbnbs in the Azores, then hotels and the car rental. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, open-mindedness, and strategic partnerships. Samuel discusses his approach to revenue optimization, focusing on operational efficiency, pricing strategies, and ancillary services. He highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics, competitor analysis, and adapting strategies to different industries. He also emphasized the importance of the time needed for his interlocutors to nurture new ideas before accepting and implementing them. Samuel also shares his experience implementing revenue management systems and building a successful website for a hotel group (putting his direct website as number source of reservation), emphasizing the importance of user-friendly interfaces and data-driven decision-making. The conversation concludes with Samuel's personal insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of work-life balance, and his dedication to creating inclusive tourism experiences for families with autistic children. Chapter 0:00:00 Samuel Francisco and his doctorate in molecular biology 0:11:30 how Samuel started his career in tourism with Airbnb coming from the scientific world 0:25:10 adopt a new mindset and switch to hospitality to improve performance 0:48:25 how to work with partners who can transform us 1:02:10 duplicating the model from hotel to car was a challenge 1:22:10 caring for autism in the family and community Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h35 | Published on December 16, 2024


For me, this is a crucial question: how can I improve my performance in a highly competitive environment? This question is often asked by fairly experienced customers who have a good knowledge of their market. Yet they feel frustrated by the difficulty of increasing their average price (RPD) without touching the price, which is too closely scrutinized by competitors. The conversation brought to you today summarizes an article written by Emmanuel Scuto, founder of WeYield and a revenue machinist for almost 25 years in the car rental industry. In this podcast, we aim to share with you the observed constraints and the solutions we've come up with at WeYield. Note: these recommendations are aimed at rental companies who are in direct competition on the same site. They are located in airports, car rental centers or train stations. Definition: demand is considered inelastic or rigid when the sales volume or conversion rate does not fall in the face of a price increase (or a high price). Demand becomes elastic when it is highly sensitive to any price variation. This conversation has been generated by the AI NotebookLM.google.com (beta) and it is based on Emmanuel Scuto's article published on https://www.weyield.io/blog-posts/tip-how-to-increase-rpd-without-increasing-prices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
11min | Published on October 12, 2024


« I wake up every morning believing that I do not know much » Montgomery Blair, a seasoned expert in revenue management, emphasizes continuous learning and innovation. With a strong background in data science and analytics, he pioneered the implementation of a revenue management system for Dollar Rent A Car in the late 1990s, revolutionizing leisure pricing based on demand forecasting. At Avis Budget Group, Montgomery advanced their Revenue Management system, integrating fleet management and corporate contracts into the optimization process. He highlights the importance of balancing dynamic pricing with corporate flat rates to maximize profitability, noting that losing low-rate corporate accounts can often lead to higher overall returns by freeing up availability for higher-paying customers. Montgomery underscores the need for internal collaboration, suggesting that the real competition often lies within the organization, between departments managing different segments. He advises focusing on maximizing contractual segments before optimizing discretionary pricing. In the car rental industry, Montgomery advocates for leveraging supply flexibility, driving cost efficiency, and making smarter data-driven decisions. He stresses the importance of correctly defining problems and accurately measuring performance, particularly in fleet decisions. Lastly, he encourages professionals to embrace innovation, take calculated risks, and stay engaged through industry conferences to drive significant advancements. Chapter 0:00:00 introduction of Montgomery Blair starting in car rental late 1990’s 0:29:30 what are the key dimensions to look at in RM 0:40:10 The overall level of fleet 0:51:25 AI and measuring performance 1:03:10 Should duration band pricing be stopped? 1:08:10 How to share analytics in a digest format References It’s your ship from Captain Michael Abrashoff Principles of economics by Alfred Marshall Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h45 | Published on September 2, 2024


Welcome to a new episode of the podcast Revenue Machine, the only one dedicated to Revenue Management. Today, Emmanuel Scuto interviews Romain Charié. Romain, co-founder of the consulting firm N&C, initially pursued studies in aeronautics before specializing in business-oriented data analysis. His experience at Air France allowed him to combine his two passions. Although the airline has sophisticated processes and tools, human intervention remains essential for decision-making. Excessive automation can lead to a loss of control over tools and analysis. One of the advantages of an RMS (Revenue Management System) is its speed and depth of analysis. However, when external factors disrupt the model (weather, strikes, security risks, etc.), the analyst must take over. For example, seasonality is never identical from one year to the next, requiring a flexible approach to analysis. At Air France, Romain compiled all documents and procedures related to optimization techniques into a White Paper, which became the bible for every revenue manager, ensuring a consistent approach to analysis. In the car rental sector, where stock uncertainty makes precise forecasting impossible, Romain found that grouping cars into broad categories was sufficient to achieve accurate probability assessments. His last corporate experience was within the Revenue Development team at Disneyland Paris, where the existing forecasting tool was ultimately ill-suited to the evolving booking behaviors of clients. Since 2014, Romain has partnered with Pascal Niffoi, with whom he worked at Air France and Disneyland Paris, to establish their consulting firm focused on optimization. They believe an analyst must always understand why a tool made a recommendation. They observed two reactions to their RMS Revbell: complete acceptance or rejection in favor of the more familiar Excel. To enhance RM analysts' skills, they offer checklists and procedures. As passionate professionals, Romain and Pascal also aim to explain the levers of price action in the media. Regardless of the industry, they believe that volume is a key factor in profitability, even before the pursuit of average price. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h25 | Published on September 2, 2024


With over 30 years of experience in Revenue Management (RM) at Dollar-Thrifty and Hertz, primarily serving franchisees, I have witnessed the evolution of the industry. I began my journey when Travelocity emerged as the first online travel agency, predating Expedia. This period marked a significant shift as pricing became a critical factor in customer decision-making with the advent of the internet in the early 2000s. At Dollar, our IT manager developed a separate tool to manage prices independently from the regular reservation system, which was groundbreaking at the time. Car rental licensees reacted differently to RM shift. Some were progressive and open to new strategies to enhance competitiveness, while others were primarily concerned with costs. A portion of the licensees initially struggled to grasp the importance of these changes. Over time, customers have been conditioned to search for the best rates, necessitating a disciplined approach to fleet management to influence better booking behaviors. During peak seasons, despite high prices, people continue to travel, indicating that car rental costs are not a major factor in destination choices. Fleet management decisions, such as opting for purchase options that lead to over-fleeting, can impact revenue. Initially, Dollar acted as an outsourced revenue manager with limited information about the fleet. A framework was established between licensees and the RM team at headquarters to create a pricing corridor, allowing flexibility without requiring rental operator approval for each price change. Trust built over months and years led internal clients to consult the RM team on broader issues beyond pure RM topics. High-level performance in car rental necessitates a solid foundation and daily discipline. It begins with accurately calculating the usable fleet available each day, monitoring no-show rates by day of the week, tracking reservation trends, and analyzing competitor behavior. Manual rate monitoring is inefficient; daily RM practices are vital. When uncertain, revenue managers should test their hypotheses, as the results can sometimes be surprising and significantly impact yield. The presence of players making illogical pricing decisions can disrupt the entire market. Conversely, systematic yield management by key players benefits the market as a whole. To enhance processes, trying new methods or features that promise better results is encouraged. However, mastering the fundamentals and practicing them consistently is crucial for success. Simply pressing buttons or expecting a system to work magic will not suffice. Maximizing revenue opportunities requires a strategic approach distinct from operational decisions. A revenue manager equipped with the right tools and strong fundamentals can make optimized decisions regarding "when, where, and what" actions to take, even in unexpected situations. This ability to adapt and optimize in real-time is both challenging and rewarding. In summary, effective revenue management in car rental is an investment that pays off through consistent, disciplined practices and a willingness to embrace innovation while maintaining a strong grasp of the basics. This approach ensures that revenue opportunities are maximized and the business remains competitive and profitable. Chapter 00:00:00 Introduction of Andy, how did the RM start at Dollar 00:13:10 Beginning of the pricing by duration and check-out 00:23:30 Reaction of licensees confronted to the revenue management project 00:30:30 Summer pricing, car dealers: influence factors 00:38:40 Process to onboard a licensee in the Central RM 01:00:00 Advices on best practices 01:16:20 Market benefits of all car rental implementing yield management properly 01:20:10 Andy’s vision about the future mobility like peer-to-peer 01:28:20 RM fundamentals of the job Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h44 | Published on June 25, 2024


"identifier les attributs de valoriser avant d'agir sur les prix" Quand la tactique consiste à simplement augmenter les prix, le risque est de venir heurter la valeur perçue par le client et de ne pas atteindre les résultats globaux. Sur le marché du pneu automobile, la concurrence est intense. Mais la perception premium par le client permet d'avoir une différence prix forte par rapport à la concurrence. Pour réussir, il est essentiel de se pencher sur les attributs de valorisation : ce qui différencie par rapport à la concurrence mais qui est valorisé par le consommateur pour être converti en prix. Tester la perception prix permet de mesurer l'élasticité des clients au prix : un changement de prix ne coûte rien, est facile et très rapide à mettre en oeuvre. L'augmentation des prix n'enclenche pas forcément une fuite du volume lorsque le produit et la marques sont supportés par le marketing et la communication associée via les attributs de valorisation. Une cartographie de ces attributs prend seulement quelques semaines. Cela peut être fait en interne La promotion n'est pas du pricing mais un mécanisme commercial de simulation temporaire de la demande habillé par le marketing. Un outil pricing est une option pour simuler l'élasticité de prix. Pour être efficace, il doit être contrôler par un pricer. Il y a toujours quelqu'un qui va prendre une décision sur le prix mais c'est malheureusement rarement une fonction dédiée. La verticalité du prix permet gérer une différenciation fine. L'exemple du pricing Décathlon est est une référence dans le domaine. Segmenter l'offre permet d'offre plus de service associé au prix. Le gain possible est entre +3 et +8% de marge. Les aptitudes pour être un bon revenue management : aimer la data, la manipuler, la formater tout en sachant prendre du recul pour garder à l'esprit comment la décision va être interpréter par le client sur le marché cible. Chapitre 00:00:00 présentation d'Alexandre 00:17:50 Rester customer centric et les attributs de valeur 00:30:10 Tester la perception en jouant avec les prix 00:40:10 Comment réaliser des tests d'attributs de valorisation 00:52:40 Attention à l'impact de la promotion permanente 00:58:04 A quoi sert un outil pricing 01:08:00 Pourquoi la fonction prix est-elle si peu développée 01:14:00 L'exemple du pricing chez Decathlon 01:27:50 Comment devenir un bon pricer 01:39:01 Le challenge pricing d'Alexandre Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h42 | Published on May 8, 2024


"The only element between you and the success you crave is yourself" Episode abstract 1/ System-Mind Synergy: Explore optimizing the synergy between our systems and mental faculties for peak performance. 2/ Adapting to Volatility: Uncover strategies for maximizing mental agility amidst extreme market volatility and uncertainty. 3/ Harnessing Past Experience: Evaluate how leveraging past experiences can bolster our resilience and adaptability to embrace discomfort and change effectively. 4/ Cultivating a New Mindset: Implement actionable tactics to cultivate and embed a growth-oriented mindset, fostering innovation and adaptability in dynamic environments. Adrian, with over 15 years of experience in car rental in Ireland working for Enterprise and Sixt in various capacities such as Operations, Channel Management, and Sales, understands the pivotal role car rental operations play in serving customers, often being their initial point of contact after long flights. Transitioning from the bustling front office to the quiet back office was initially jarring for him, prompting introspection about his career path. He delves into the power of thought, citing statistics that reveal how people's thoughts shape their realities. Adrian advocates for conscious reprogramming of the subconscious mind to foster positive change gradually, emphasizing the mind's inability to distinguish between reality and imagination. He urges professionals to focus on their own businesses rather than fixating on competitors, stressing the importance of recognizing one's unique value proposition. Adrian encourages embracing change incrementally, acknowledging that personal growth necessitates accepting failure and experimenting with resilient, profitable ventures. He outlines three types of goals—A, B, and C—highlighting the significance of pursuing goals driven by burning desires. Visualizing success mentally is underscored as a potent tool in achieving these objectives. In essence, Adrian advocates for a proactive mindset, strategic focus, and a willingness to evolve in the dynamic car rental industry. Chapter 00:00:00 Adrian Treacy introduction 00:19:20 How the mindset approach got started 00:34:30 Revenue management and mindset 00:47:14 Setting a new paradygm, our new mental software 00:53:45 How to overcome fear as a driver not to start 01:13:14 3 types of goals A, B, C till the end Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
1h37 | Published on April 1, 2024