A new study by Travel Counsellors has claimed small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the reopening of the US border are leading the way in the business travel recovery.
A recent survey of the homeworking agency’s corporate clients showed that most responders plan to travel between now and March 2022. Around 50% plan to travel in 2021 and almost 30% between January and March 2022.
The research also claimed the US is now the most booked destination for business travel, after the Biden administration announced the country’s borders will reopen in November, with 24% of total bookings. The UK sits at 21% and the UAE 12%.
According to the survey, around 45% of business travellers are from the financial services sector with professional services and consultancy rates the next highest at around 18%.
Engineering, manufacturing oil and gas, education and media and entertainment account for 5% of bookings per sector.
The most important consideration for business travellers is reportedly to have an expert on hand 24/7 to make and manage bookings as well as cost.
Kieran Hartwell, corporate managing director for Travel Counsellors, said it is important for SMEs to "establish personal contact" with clients and new business prospects.
"It has been interesting to see that our trends are reflected industry wide," he added.
"Our travel counsellors have the knowledge to advise clients through the ever-evolving paperwork and forms as well as finding the best value solutions. We are delighted at how the business is now picking up and fully expect this trend to continue as the US opens its borders to UK travellers."
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