sure priceline is comparable, price-wise. thats a given...Copycraigs also uses priceline to book.
the catch is....
there are 3 star hotels i wouldn't mind if i was stuck for choices, and others you couldn't pay me to stay at.
same with the 4 star hotel range..there are a couple that i would want to avoid.
Copycraigs can narrow down for me what hotel i will get. i like being able to choose from my favorites. and im sure my clients appreciate that i can book something close to their offices, not up on Bloor street.
there simply is no risk of bidding on something and getting stuck with a hotel i wouldn't want. if i end up paying a few dollars more but have the ability to choose my favorite hotel, so be it.
(and in the case of independents booking hotels for incalls, there are some four star hotels in toronto that require a room key to operate the elevator. definitely not ideal)