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GOL Lead Internet Sales in 2004
São Paulo, March 9, 2005 GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes S.A. (NYSE: GOL and Bovespa: GOLL4), Brazils low-fare, low-cost airline, was one of the largest e-commerce companies in Brazil in 2004. Internet sales in 2004, at R$1.6 billion, accounted for 80% of the Companys R$ 2 billion in sales.
A large part of the online sales success can be attributed to the Companys marketing of the Internet as a convenient tool for the purchase of airline tickets. Attracted by the efficiency offered by GOLs sales distribution channel, travel agencies obtained productivity gains and the penetration of new markets. During the fourth quarter of 2004, GOLs website received approximately 600,000 unique visitors per month, representing over 50% growth compared to 2003.
GOL has long-used the Web as a tool to make travel more convenient and efficient for its customers. From its inception, GOL has primarily focused on selling tickets via the Internet and eliminating the need for traditional paper tickets. In addition, GOL offers other virtual services, including allowing customers to check-in and change flights online. The e-commerce platform is essential to GOLs business, providing customers with easy access to our services. Additionally, use of the Web supports GOLs low-cost, low-fare model, said Tarcísio Gargioni, Marketing and Services Vice President.
In December of last year, the Company, in partnership with the mobile operator VIVO, provided its passengers with one more convenient and powerful tool, enabling them to purchase tickets and check-in via an Internet-ready cell phone.
About GOL Linhas Aéreas
Inteligentes
GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, a low-cost, low-fare airline, is one
of the most profitable and fastest growing airlines in the industry worldwide. GOL
operates a simplified fleet of Boeing 737s with a single-class of service. GOL
has one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the industry with low
maintenance, fuel and training costs, and high aircraft utilization and efficiency
ratios. In addition, safe and reliable services, which stimulate GOLs brand
recognition and customer satisfaction, allow GOL to have the best cost-benefit service
in the market. GOL currently offers service to 39 major business and travel
destinations in Brazil and Argentina, In 2005, GOL plans to grow by increasing
frequencies in existing markets and adding service to additional markets in both
Brazil and other South American travel destinations. GOL shares are listed on the
NYSE and the Bovespa. For more information, schedules and fares, please visit
www.voegol.com.br or call 0300-789-2121 in Brazil, or 55 11 2125-3200 from outside
Brazil. GOL: Here everyone can fly!
CONTACT: Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes S.A.
Investor Relations:
Ph: (5511) 5033 4393
e-mail: ri@golnaweb.com.br
www.voegol.com.br (IR section)
or
Media - International: | Media - Brazil: |
Gavin Anderson | MVL Comunicação |
Gabriela Juncadella | Juliana Cabrini or Roberta Corbioli |
Ph: 212-515-1957 | Ph: (5511) 3049-0343 / 0341 |
e-mail: GJuncadella@GavinAnderson.com | e-mail: juliana.cabrini@mvl.com.br |
This release contains forward-looking statements relating to the prospects of the business, estimates for operating and financial results, and those related to growth prospects of GOL. These are merely projections and, as such, are based exclusively on the expectations of GOLs management concerning the future of the business and its continued access to capital to fund the Companys business plan. Such forward-looking statements depend, substantially, on changes in market conditions, government regulations, competitive pressures, the performance of the Brazilian economy and the industry, among other factors and risks disclosed in GOLs filed disclosure documents and are, therefore, subject to change without prior notice.
GOL LINHAS AÉREAS INTELIGENTES S.A.
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By: |
/S/
Richard F. Lark, Jr.
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Name: Richard F. Lark, Jr.
Title: Vice President Finance, Chief Financial Officer
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This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are statements that are not historical facts, and are based on management's current view and estimates offuture economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance and financial results. The words "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "expects", "plans" and similar expressions, as they relate to the company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the declaration or payment of dividends, the implementation of principal operating and financing strategies and capital expenditure plans, the direction of future operations and the factors or trends affecting financial condition, liquidity or results of operations are examples of forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of management and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. There is no guarantee that the expected events, trends or results will actually occur. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions, and operating factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.