Business Travel on the Rise, But Still Cost Sensitive

GetThereBusiness travel is once again on the rise. According to the results of GetThere’s most recent survey, companies are increasing their corporate travel budgets. Yet, even though the segment has been going through a positive period the general approach between corporates is still one of a travel expenses reduction.

According to Jason Geall, director for Europe and the Middle East at GetThere, companies are encouraging employees to travel more in order to generate new business, while still pushing them to keep the travel costs at a manageable minimum.

“Prudent travel practices remain intact because technology is now in place to help companies control their travel policies,” said Geall. “Best practices introduced during the credit crunch remain even as corporate travel volumes return to pre-recession levels.”

Survey shows that 61% of the respondents expect a 10% rise in their travel budgets this year, while a third are expecting an increase of up to a third of their current budgets.

Other results of the survey also indicate record levels in online bookings in the European market.

“Adoption levels have reached record levels across Europe and we expect this to increase in line with the focus on savings,” declaired Jason Geall

Based on GetThere’s figures, through online booking travelers have managed to save up to 70% on agency fees and up to 24% on air-fares.