Company travel policies “identical”
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Businesses of all sizes have the same priorities when it comes to travel policies in 2013, a new survey by Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) has found.
Its survey of 800 travel managers across the world found all companies, whether they had budgets of US$2 million or US$100m, were all focused on saving money, with European buyers concentrating on tightening air and rail policies.
Those who handle travel globally will have more leniency in testing new methods. Technology was another top priority including mobile offering, social media and web-based tools for travellers, although many are concerned that apps developed outside the market and travel review sites are impacting their hold on travellers.
Other challenges outlined included controlling booking behaviours while managing travel and ensuring travellers are looked after when in a destination.
“The challenging economic climate means that there is continued pressure on buyers to both reduce costs and manage travel in a more cost-effective way,” said Christophe Renard, CWT’s vice president marketing, communications and business intelligence. “As air and ground travel represents the majority of spend within a travel programme, it is not surprising that it is the number one priority for most travel buyers, even though it is an area that is already well advanced in terms of optimisation.”