Global Payments Inc. has entered a strategic partnership with Centara Hotels & Resorts to overhaul cross-border payment processing across the Thai hotel group's portfolio. The collaboration will equip Centara's properties—spanning 92 hotels and resorts across 10 countries—with multicurrency pricing in 153 currencies and support for 200 payment types, a move designed to eliminate the currency friction that often complicates bookings for international travellers.
The announcement comes as Thailand's tourism sector rebounds strongly. In 2025, the kingdom welcomed 32.97 million international visitors, underscoring the need for seamless, secure payment infrastructure. With travellers increasingly favouring direct bookings over online travel agencies (OTAs) to secure better rates and loyalty benefits, the ability to offer a smooth checkout experience has become a competitive differentiator for hoteliers.
Direct booking strategy gets a payments boost
By integrating Global Payments' infrastructure, Centara will be able to manage the entire checkout process in-house, reducing reliance on third-party intermediaries. This not only enhances the guest experience but also strengthens the hotel group's direct relationship with customers—a key priority for many hospitality operators seeking to boost loyalty and reduce distribution costs.
Phil Pomford, executive lead at Global Payments, highlighted the shifting expectations of modern travellers: "Travellers now expect to find their own currency, preferred payment method, and a seamless checkout experience wherever they book." His comments reflect a broader industry trend where payment flexibility is becoming as important as room rates and amenities.
Centara's CEO, Thirayuth Chirathivat, echoed that sentiment, noting that the partnership will support Thailand's tourism growth by integrating secure cross-border capabilities. "This collaboration aligns with our commitment to delivering world-class hospitality while embracing the digital innovations that today's guests demand," he said.
The move is part of Global Payments' wider strategy to simplify payment processes in high-volume travel sectors across Asia. The company has been expanding its footprint in the region, targeting hotel groups, airlines, and travel platforms that serve international clientele.
For hoteliers, the ability to accept a wide range of payment methods—from international credit cards to local e-wallets—can significantly reduce cart abandonment and improve conversion rates. Centara's adoption of this technology is expected to set a benchmark for other Thai hospitality players, particularly as the country continues to attract a diverse mix of visitors from China, Europe, and the Middle East.
The partnership also comes at a time when global hotel brands are navigating localization challenges in key Asian markets. Payment preferences vary widely across borders, and a one-size-fits-all approach often falls short. Centara's move to offer localized payment options could serve as a model for other operators looking to enhance their cross-border appeal.
Transactions on the new platform are expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026. While that timeline may seem distant, the integration of such systems typically requires extensive testing and compliance with regional financial regulations. Once live, the platform will support Centara's properties in Thailand and potentially extend to its international portfolio.
The development is a positive signal for Thailand's tourism infrastructure, which has been investing heavily in digital upgrades. As the country prepares for continued growth in visitor arrivals, partnerships like this one will be crucial in ensuring that the booking experience matches the quality of the destination itself.
For travel professionals, the deal underscores the growing importance of payments technology in the hospitality sector. As more travellers book directly and expect frictionless transactions, hoteliers and other travel suppliers will need to invest in robust payment ecosystems or risk losing ground to more agile competitors.
Global Payments' collaboration with Centara is a clear example of how fintech and travel are converging, and it will be interesting to see how other Thai hotel groups respond. With the country's tourism numbers on the rise, the race to offer the most seamless payment experience is only just beginning.
