Why corporate travel management is key to business growth this year
Over the last decade, and particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work and virtual meetings have become normalised in business and for many, this is great news!
So, with technology making it possible to work and connect from anywhere at any time, it almost feels counterproductive to promote business travel.
Yet, as we move further into 2025, smart businesses are doubling down on corporate travel and, more importantly, on managing it well. Corporate travel management is no longer just about booking flights and hotels; it’s a strategic function that is directly tied to the growth and success of your business.
With that in mind, we’re going to share why effective corporate travel management has become essential for companies aiming to scale up in 2025 and beyond.
In-person connection still matters
While there’s no denying the benefits of remote work and virtual connections, it’s also true that nothing can fully replace face-to-face interactions. It doesn’t matter whether you’re negotiating a £1 million deal, expanding into new markets or trying to build trusted relationships with a new client, in-person meetings are far more effective than phone or video calls can ever be.
A well-managed travel program ensures your teams can meet new recruits, clients or key stakeholders efficiently and cost-effectively, translating into stronger relationships and, ultimately, better business outcomes.
Supporting cost control and policy compliance
Poorly managed corporate travel quickly leads to overspending and missed savings opportunities, and in some cases, it could even lead to compliance issues and company policies not being adhered to.
A centralised corporate travel management program helps to set out clear policies, automate approvals and secure bookings and discounts with preferred travel experts like flight specialists.
This not only helps to cut costs but it also ensures compliance at every level, minimising risk and allowing for better travel budgeting. This can then free up capital to be reinvested into other growth initiatives.
Attracting talent and boosting company culture
In 2025, the war on talent still rages on, and those who promote business travel may gain a competitive advantage. Employees, especially Gen Z and millennials, value companies that offer travel opportunities, viewing these as a chance for learning, collaboration and career progression.
A strong corporate travel management program supports employee well-being through corporate travel policies, offering more flexibility, better support during disruptions and integration with other company wellness initiatives.
Happy, safe and productive travellers are more likely to drive results and stay loyal to their employers, all of which can help your business to succeed this year.
Making global expansion simpler
Any business that wants to expand into emerging markets needs agile and secure travel solutions. Corporate travel planning plays a key role in navigating important aspects like visa requirements, political instability, health regulations and cultural differences.
Therefore, a well-structured corporate travel management program ensures that your teams can travel abroad with minimal friction or delay, allowing companies to seize international opportunities quicker and more confidently.
Ensuring sustainability and ESG compliance
Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s a core part of corporate responsibility. So again, advocating for corporate travel might seem counterintuitive, especially as, in 2025, businesses are under increasing pressure to align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.
However, through careful travel management, companies can start reducing their carbon footprint right away by making more sustainable travel choices, choosing carbon offset programs and optimising itineraries.
This allows them to meet their ESG targets without sacrificing performance or opportunities for business travel.
Are you championing business travel in 2025?
In 2025, corporate travel is no longer just a logistical necessity if and when international business meetings arise; it is now a strategic growth driver.
When managed with precision and insight, business travel can give your company a competitive edge. Businesses that invest in their corporate travel management efforts will be in a better position to grow faster, operate smarter and stay agile in an unpredictable world.
As the business landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: those who manage travel well will travel farther.
So, if you need help managing your corporate travel arrangements or booking group flights this year, get in touch with our talented team of flight specialists today.