SINGAPORE – Singapore-based Furama Hotels International (FHI) is in talks with an Australian hotel chain for a sales alliance programme. Kevin Ng, business development manager, FHI said the Australian chain is well-represented Down Under with about a dozen hotels. “We are confident about working with them and will reach a decision in about a fortnight,” said Ng. He added that other than the Australian hotel operator, FHI is also exploring sales partnerships with independent hotels in South-east Asia and North Asia, specifically China. “Providing sales representation for independent hotels in the region forms phase one of our expansion strategy. We start with sales is because this is the most critical thing for the owners, “said Ng. Independent hotels would prefer to tap FHI’s regional sales reach to drive international traffic into their properties than pay the high compliance fee of a major hotel chain, he said. This development also signals Furama’s recognition as a quality brand in the region. “Working with us will give them instant returns, we also have GSAs in London and Japan“ quipped Jason Peck, corporate director of sales, FHI. The company will be holding a roadshow in Sydney and Melbourne next year.