If you're able to fill your property at rates you want, at a lower cost of sale and without utilising 3rd party distribution, you shouldn't use them, but that doesn't make them "sharks". They offer a legitimate and professional service to both hoteliers and consumers, which many of both camps are happy to use. Let's not be under the illusion that they retain the majority of the commission they negotiate.

I would though concede that once they draw you in, it's not easy for a hotelier to get off the "drug" of their production. It's evident that they are better at acquiring and retaining customers than the majority of hotels, even (maybe especially) big chains.

Back on topic for the OP (who it seems doesn't want to book direct if it doesn't earn miles...), BA is still more focused on selling its own hotel product via BA Holidays, and direct deals with various chains which also offer bonus Avios deals from time to time.