Who Is FairSearch.org?

I discovered FairSearch.org, an astroturf site, via a random Google search. I was struck by the links between the 16 members. Knowing that there is only the appearance of competition in travel sites is one thing; seeing it in black-and-white, so to speak, is another.

1. Microsoft
   • Expedia – spun off from Microsoft in 1999, sold to Ticketmaster aka  IAC, spun off in 2005
     • Hotwire – part of Expedia
     • LevelFrance – associated with Expedia.fr
     • TripAdvisor – spun off from Expedia in 2011
     • Kayak.com – formed by the co-founders of Expedia, Travelocity and Orbitz in 2004
       • SideStep – part of Kayak
     • ITSA – trade association; members include Expedia, Sabre Holdings and Travelocity
   • Busca.pe – a Naspers company, provides web services to Microsoft in Latin America
2. Sabre Holdings
   • Travelocity
     • Zuji owned by Travelocity
3. AdMarketplace.com – pay per click advertising
4. Foundem.uk.co – UK vertical search company
5. ShopCity.com – network of local business sites
6. Twenga – French e-search company