This week, we report from the Hospitality, Travel and Leisure Business Directory and explain how the call for Safety First: Navigating Business Travel Risks is a feature of premium business travellers.
In 2021, New Zealand’s domestic business travel rebounded to near pre-pandemic levels, a recovery contrasting global trends. This resurgence can be attributed to the relatively low-risk environment in New Zealand and the desire of the population to reconnect with business associates. However, safety protocols are being emphasized as the country anticipates another wave of travel post-lockdown.
The pandemic’s impact has significantly altered the role of travel management companies. They’ve downsized but also invested in technology to facilitate a quicker, stronger recovery. This shift is noticeable among different business travel segments, including those who immediately resumed travel post-lockdown, those who reduced business travel due to effective remote work, those eager to resume travel to maintain client relationships, and those cautious about returning to travel and opting for virtual events instead.
These changes have required businesses to reconsider their travel strategies and focus on the safety and preferences of their employees. Furthermore, travel managers have been given the opportunity to reduce business travel expenses, whilst at the same time making further adjustments according to the diverse needs of these traveller segments.