February 14th, 2024

6 reasons business travel is a worthwhile investment

In a world increasingly driven by virtual communication, the enduring relevance of business travel might seem questionable. However, recent research and trends suggest otherwise. Despite economic pressures and the rise of remote work, companies are doubling down on their business travel budgets. 

Boosting sales and building relationships

Research indicates that executives overwhelmingly prefer in-person meetings for critical business functions like persuasion, leadership, and decision-making. Investing in business travel to facilitate these meetings can significantly enhance sales performance and foster long-term business partnerships.

The value of face-to-face meetings

Face-to-face meetings hold unparalleled power in business interactions. They facilitate better communication, trust-building, and stronger relationships with clients and partners. The World Travel & Tourism Council reports that global business travellers found that around 50% of their prospective customers converted to new business after a face-to-face meeting compared with 31% without in-person interaction.

Return on investment (ROI) of corporate travel

Quantitative analysis reveals the substantial ROI associated with business travel. From higher client retention rates to enhanced business development opportunities, the benefits are undeniable. The average return on investment for corporate travel ranges from $10 to $14.99 per dollar invested, underlining its value as a strategic business investment.

Staying ahead of the competition

Attending industry events and conferences remains a cornerstone of business strategy for many companies. By allocating resources to send employees to these events, organizations ensure they stay abreast of the latest trends and insights in their respective fields. Networking offers opportunities to forge valuable connections, potentially leading to future collaborations.

Employee training and professional development

Investing in employee training is imperative for organizations aiming to stay competitive in today’s dynamic business landscape. Business travel is crucial in facilitating training programs, enabling employees to network, learn from industry experts, and build valuable relationships. This investment not only enhances employee skills but also contributes to a culture of lifelong learning within the organization.

A positive global impact

Business travel not only benefits individual organizations but also has significant implications for entire nations. Research with the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth reveals a positive correlation between inbound travel and economic growth. Corporate travelers contribute to this growth by sharing knowledge, thereby enhancing industrial ventures and boosting profits through increased in-country spending.

Despite the allure of virtual communication, the unique value of face-to-face interactions remains unparalleled. Indeed, the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has forecasted that corporate travel spending will be back to its pre-pandemic levels this year (2024), a year earlier than expected. Businesses cannot afford to ignore this increasing trend. By embracing strategic travel management practices and recognizing the ROI of corporate travel, organizations can harness their full potential to drive business success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Image Credits: Female business traveler on plane by GaudiLab © Shutterstock; Colleagues shaking hands by ASDF_MEDIA © Shutterstock; Business traveler with suitcase by GaudiLab © Shutterstock; Image of informal business meeting by Monkey Business Images © Shutterstock; Business man sitting in seminar hall by sirtravelalot © Shutterstock.