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Conferma, in partnership with Hilton, has been awarded Best Technology Integration at the 2026 Card & Payments Awards – a recognition of work that is reshaping how virtual cards are delivered across the industry.
The award celebrates the first global rollout of Connect Direct, Conferma’s innovative API-driven solution that automates the delivery of virtual card details directly into hotel Property Management Systems (PMS). This first-of-its-kind integration modernises legacy processes and delivers a faster, more secure, and more reliable payment experience across all Hilton properties.
As the world’s first global hotel group to adopt the solution, Hilton has significantly reduced the manual administrative burden associated with virtual corporate cards. Previously, payment details were often received via email or fax, creating friction and risk. Connect Direct removes these steps, supporting the growing demand for frictionless travel and digital-first experiences.
The judges praised the integration for its scale and impact, stating: “This winning entry delivered a transformative integration framework that streamlined fragmented hospitality processes, accelerated settlement accuracy and unlocked multi-stakeholder value across the entire travel ecosystem.”
Momentum is growing fast. Since Hilton’s adoption, Connect Direct has been adopted by other leading hotel chains – including Strawberry and Thon Hotels – to improve operational efficiency and elevate guest experience.