Final answer:
Option D is not true because disintermediation has occurred in many sectors, not just the online travel services industry. This trend has been encouraged by advances in technology and globalization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the provided statements about the online travel services industry, option D is not true. The online travel services sector has indeed experienced disintermediation, which is the removal or reduction of intermediaries between producers and consumers. However, this sector is not one of the few where disintermediation has occurred; it has been common in several industries due to the rise of the internet.
Disintermediation has been driven by the forces of globalization and advancements in communications technology, leading to increased competition from different regions and countries. Additionally, business-to-business websites have further facilitated the trend of cutting out middlemen, making it easier for businesses to connect directly with suppliers and buyers globally.
Options A, B, and C are accurate reflections of the current competitive landscape in online travel services. Price competition is intense because it is easy for consumers to compare prices and find better deals online. The commoditization of travel products and services has indeed contributed to the industry's growth. Moreover, the industry has gone through consolidation, with mergers and acquisitions reducing the number of competitors.