How Will TMCs Rebound and Adapt at Skift Business Travel & Future of Work Summit 2021

Navigating the Future of Business Travel: An Insightful Conversation

• In a recent conversation at the Skift Business Travel and Future Work Summit, CEO Paul Abbott of American Express Global Business Travel shared valuable insights on the current state and future of corporate travel. The discussion, led by Skift Corporate Travel Editor Matthew Parsons, shed light on the challenges and opportunities facing the travel management industry.

• Reflecting on the past year, Abbott acknowledged the unprecedented challenges brought about by the global pandemic. Despite the tough times, he expressed optimism about the industry's resilience and adaptability. The focus has been on strengthening relationships with clients and colleagues, demonstrating a commitment to service, and delivering on the brand promise of American Express GBT.

• As the CEO of the world's largest travel management company, Abbott highlighted the importance of innovation and adaptation in meeting the evolving needs of business travelers. Initiatives such as Travel Vitals and proactive alert features have been launched to provide clients with essential information and enhance the travel experience in a post-pandemic world.

• Looking ahead, Abbott emphasized the need for a safe restart of travel. The rollout of vaccines has raised hopes for a revival in business travel, but ensuring traveler safety remains a top priority. Building trust and confidence among clients is crucial for the industry's recovery. Abbott revealed promising signs of demand returning in key markets like China, Australia, India, and the US, signaling a gradual recovery in the sector.

• In conclusion, the conversation between Abbott and Parsons offered a glimpse into the strategic priorities and future outlook of American Express Global Business Travel. As the industry adapts to new norms and challenges, innovation, safety, and customer-centricity will continue to drive the evolution of business travel landscape.

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Navigating the Future of Business Travel: An Insightful Conversation

The Future of Travel: A Path to Safe Restart and Collaboration

• The world is at a crucial juncture, where the safe restart of travel hangs in the balance. Governments hold the key to unlocking this new chapter in the travel industry, but so far, their approach has been disjointed and lacking in coordination.

• To pave the way for a successful restart, a partnership between the travel industry and governments is imperative. Clear solutions need to be put in place to ensure the smooth resumption of travel activities. One clear solution, supported by advancements in science, is the implementation of proof of vaccination or negative PCR tests for travelers. Embracing this principle will allow individuals to travel without unnecessary restrictions.

• The collaboration between industry stakeholders, such as IATA, GPTA, and WTTC, along with direct engagement with governments, is essential to establish a common set of standards for verifying vaccination certificates and test results. Working towards a unified approach will not only streamline travel processes but also enhance safety measures for travelers.

• While the road to restarting travel may have its challenges, there is a sense of optimism regarding the potential influence of key industry players such as large corporations. These entities can leverage their sway and influence to engage in constructive dialogues with governments to advocate for a common set of protocols. The focus on aligning interests and priorities is crucial for driving meaningful change in international travel.

• As the travel industry evolves, the importance of business travel as a significant revenue generator cannot be overstated. While leisure travelers may comprise a larger portion of passenger numbers, business travelers often contribute a sizable percentage of profits. Educating governments about this critical distinction serves as a foundation for fostering stronger partnerships and collaborations in the future.

• Exploring innovative approaches, such as pilot corridors between major hubs like New York and London, can serve as a testing ground for demonstrating the efficacy of safe travel protocols. By partnering with select companies and airlines, these pilot programs can showcase the effectiveness of standardized processes like digital passports. Such initiatives not only highlight best practices but also set a precedent for future collaborations in the industry.

• Looking ahead, a pragmatic approach to travel resumption involves implementing risk-based protocols that consider the varying levels of virus management in different countries. By categorizing nations based on risk levels, from low to high, authorities can tailor entry requirements accordingly. Embracing a more ambitious and scalable framework for travel protocols is essential for reviving the global travel ecosystem.

• In conclusion, the future of travel hinges on visionary leadership and collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders and governments. By advocating for clear categorization and principles, the path to a safe restart of travel becomes more tangible. With perseverance and a united front, the travel industry can overcome current challenges and pave the way for a more resilient and interconnected world.

The Future of Travel: A Path to Safe Restart and Collaboration

Navigating the Future of Travel Management: Innovation and Adaptation

• In the ever-evolving landscape of travel management, the importance of innovation and adaptation has never been more crucial. The challenges faced by the industry have necessitated a shift in strategies and a focus on meeting the diverse needs of clients and travelers alike.

• As we look towards the post-pandemic era, travel managers are finding themselves at the forefront of strategic decision-making. The questions posed to them by the C-suite now encompass complex issues such as duty of care, rebuilding trust with employees, and assessing the ROI on travel. This shift towards a more holistic and strategic approach requires travel management companies to step up and provide solutions that address these new demands.

• On the traveler's side, rebuilding trust and confidence is paramount. Tools like travel vitals with multiple API connections are becoming essential in providing travelers with up-to-date information and alerts. Additionally, the emphasis on messaging as a critical communication tool highlights the need for personalized and accessible support for travelers, whether it's through dedicated travel consultants or instant messaging platforms.

• The wave of innovation sweeping through the travel management industry has brought forth a new era of competition. Legacy agencies are facing off against tech-focused newcomers with significant investments in digital solutions. However, staying competitive in this dynamic landscape requires a commitment to adaptation, innovation, and meeting client needs.

• Contrary to the perception that new entrants hold the monopoly on technology, legacy travel management companies have also made substantial investments in digital transformation. These companies have developed their own suite of digital products, invested in core platforms, and tailored solutions to cater to a diverse range of client requirements. Whether offering turnkey integrated platforms or customizable technology solutions, legacy agencies are proving their ability to evolve with the times.

• In the face of rapidly changing market dynamics, the key to survival and success lies in a willingness to adapt and innovate. By embracing the digital revolution and tailoring solutions to meet the evolving needs of clients and travelers, travel management companies can navigate the future landscape with confidence and resilience.

• It is this spirit of innovation and commitment to excellence that will continue to drive the industry forward, shaping a new era of travel management that is centered on efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction.

Navigating the Future of Travel Management: Innovation and Adaptation

The Era of Transformation: Navigating the Modern Business Landscape

• In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, the key to success lies in adaptability and innovation. Companies no longer compete based on a single solution but rather on the ability to offer a flexible and modern platform that caters to a wide range of client needs.

• American Express GBT, a prominent player in the industry, exemplifies this ethos with their record-breaking performance last year. With over three billion in new business signed, including partnerships with leading technology companies, their success showcases the importance of staying ahead of the curve.

• The emphasis on technology and integration has been a driving force for American Express GBT. Constant investments in technological advancements like their neo expense solution and travel vitals reflect a commitment to enhancing client experiences and staying competitive in the digital age.

• As the business landscape continues to evolve, the concept of legacy is being redefined. While traditional companies bring experience and stability, newer entrants with a technology-first approach are challenging the status quo. This dynamic environment is prompting companies to adapt, innovate, and seek strategic acquisitions to stay relevant.

• Acquisitions have become a strategic move for companies like American Express GBT to enhance their value proposition and cater to evolving client needs. By acquiring companies like 30 Seconds to Fly and Ovation, they are expanding their capabilities in artificial intelligence and high-touch service, respectively, to offer unparalleled experiences to clients.

• The ongoing trend of consolidation in the marketplace is driven not just by economic pressures but also by the need for substantial investments in technology and infrastructure. Companies are realizing the importance of scale, innovation, and agility to compete effectively, leading to a wave of mergers and acquisitions reshaping the industry.

The Era of Transformation: Navigating the Modern Business Landscape

Embracing the Future of Work: Trends and Innovations in Corporate Travel

• The landscape of corporate travel is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and changing work dynamics. As remote work becomes more prevalent, companies are looking for innovative solutions to facilitate collaboration and productivity among employees. One such solution is the launch of platforms like Workplaces, designed to provide clients and their employees with flexible meeting spaces.

• Workplaces, the new platform introduced by leading companies in the travel industry, offers a unique opportunity for clients to access and organize flexible workspaces in hotels. This trend aligns with the shift towards remote work and the need for easily accessible meeting spaces. The positive reception from clients indicates a growing demand for such services, reflecting the changing landscape of corporate travel.

• The concept of Workplaces is not only a response to the rise of remote work but also a reflection of the broader trend towards digitization and connectivity. Just as Uber transformed the transportation industry and Amazon revolutionized e-commerce, platforms like Workplaces aim to streamline the process of accessing and organizing workspace. By leveraging technology, companies like Amex GBT are staying ahead of the curve in meeting the evolving needs of their clients.

• In a post-pandemic world where international travel restrictions remain in place, domestic travel and local workspace solutions are gaining momentum. The shift towards utilizing hotels as flexible workspaces reflects a changing mindset towards travel and work arrangements. While international travel may be on hold for now, the focus on local and domestic travel presents new opportunities for innovation in the corporate travel sector.

• As the corporate travel industry navigates the challenges of a post-pandemic world, companies like Amex GBT are at the forefront of driving innovation and adapting to changing trends. The launch of platforms like Workplaces signals a shift towards more flexible and accessible workspaces, catering to the needs of remote employees and clients. By embracing the future of work and leveraging technology, companies can stay competitive and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving corporate travel landscape.

Embracing the Future of Work: Trends and Innovations in Corporate Travel

Conclusion:

As the travel industry evolves post-pandemic, innovation, safety, and customer-centricity are key drivers for the future of business travel. The insights shared at the summit highlight the industry's resilience, adaptability, and strategic priorities for a safe restart and sustained recovery.

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