Business travel is not just about getting from point A to point B. It is about achieving specific objectives, creating value, and making an impact. Right now, business travelers are becoming more selective and strategic about their travel decisions, and they are seeking to maximize the return on investment (ROI) of their trips. They are also becoming more conscious of the environmental and social implications of their travel choices, and they are opting for destinations and providers that support sustainability goals. 

The bottomline is that business travelers are concerned about the cost, the impact on their lives and the environment, and the value they get from being away from the office. Businesses also are being more cautious and want to make sure all trips make sense based upon similar criteria. So here are some of the trends that are shaping the future of purposeful, ROI-focused business travel.

Objective Stacking

Objective stacking is the practice of fulfilling multiple objectives in one trip, such as meeting clients, attending events, networking, learning, and exploring. Objective stacking allows business travelers to optimize their time, money, and energy, as well as to enrich their personal and professional development. According to a survey by Cytric Easy by Amadeus, the only travel booking tool embedded into Microsoft Teams, 78% of business travelers said they would like to stack more objectives into their trips in 2024. Cytric Easy by Amadeus also helps business travelers to find the best opportunities to stack objectives, by recommending who to meet with and when to achieve their business goals. (Source: Amadeus)

Net-Zero Heroes

Net-zero heroes are business travelers who are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. They choose to travel only when necessary, and they prefer to fly with airlines that use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) or offset their emissions. They also favor hotels, car rentals, and other providers that have strong environmental policies and practices. For example, Virgin Atlantic has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and it has partnered with LanzaJet to produce SAF from waste materials. Hilton has also set ambitious targets to cut its environmental impact in half by 2030, and it has launched a carbon-neutral meetings program. (Sources: Virgin Atlantic, Hilton)

Power Networking

Power networking is the art of building and maintaining meaningful connections with people who can help business travelers achieve their objectives. Power networking involves attending events, joining communities, and leveraging platforms that facilitate interaction and collaboration. Power networking can also enhance business travelers’ reputation, influence, and access to opportunities. For instance, Getaway is a platform that connects business travelers with local hosts who can offer them authentic experiences, insights, and contacts. LinkedIn is also a powerful tool for business travelers to network with professionals, join groups, and discover events. (Sources: Getaway, LinkedIn)

Business travel is evolving to become more purposeful, ROI-focused, and sustainable. Business travelers are looking for ways to make the most of their trips, while also minimizing their negative impact on the planet and society. By following these trends, business travelers can not only achieve their business goals, but also enrich their personal and professional lives.