Business travel trends 2025
Insights from global events reveal key trends shaping 2025. Our SilverDoor representatives have actively participated in numerous industry events, gathering valuable perspectives on the industry that is Business Travel. Ranging from streamlining travel processes to considering risk management, many insights were shared that will affect the business travel experience.
With these insights in mind, here are our key predictions for 2025 and beyond:
Sustainability will dominate upcoming agendas
At ITM Empower 2024 in April, Mark Corbett, Founder and Director of Thrust Carbon, shared that 92% of business travel professionals prioritise sustainability, yet global emissions continue to rise. Corbett stressed that measuring environmental impact is essential for initiating change. He urged attendees to reflect on their sustainability choices, highlighting how small mindset shifts can create significant impacts.
This message was reiterated in May at Singapore's GBTA APAC/WERC Conference 2024. The key takeaway, "Action trumps perfection," emphasised the importance of immediate action, even if carbon emissions remain challenging to measure. Speakers distinguished between carbon offsets (e.g., tree plantations) and carbon insets (reducing emissions at the source). Singapore’s government plans to impose a carbon levy of 2% by 2026 and 5% by 2030, addressing 95% of emissions.
Sustainability will take centre stage in 2025, with actionable steps and accurate measurements driving change. Organisations will begin prioritising green travel solutions, stricter carbon reporting regulations will emerge, and eco-friendly serviced apartments will become more widespread. We expect companies to adopt carbon offsetting schemes, while properties implement renewable energy and sustainable practices.
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Investment in new technologies will streamline travel processes
At SilverDoor’s Partner Engagement Day in September, Karen Hutchings (Cobb & Hutch) discussed the growing demand for online booking technology to mirror the ease and efficiency of retail. She pointed out that reliance on outdated systems like the Global Distribution System (GDS) limits efficiency. Emerging technologies like ChatGPT and conversational AI can streamline administrative tasks, improve cost management, and enhance sustainability tracking.
Technology will continue to transform travel in 2025, offering more personalised experiences. AI-driven booking platforms and customised accommodation recommendations will become the norm, while chatbots and virtual concierges will enhance customer service. Data analytics will optimise travel spend and predict traveller preferences.
This need for improved online connectivity was evident in 2024, with increasing demand for OBT capabilities to streamline short- and long-term bookings, reducing the need for multiple tools. This shift further supports the integration of serviced apartments into transient business travel. This is expected to gain momentum in 2025.
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Proactive risk management and real-time technology will become essential
At the WERC: The Global Community for Talent Mobility in Washington, D.C. in October, speakers emphasised proactive planning over reactive measures. They stressed the importance of building dedicated task forces and running crisis drills. Integrating real-time travel alerts with location-tracking technology ensures timely updates and enhances traveller safety during crises.
With global inflation rates stabilising, the business travel sector is poised for recovery. However, geopolitical tensions could introduce uncertainties, prompting organisations to revisit travel risk policies. The demand for travel management companies (TMCs) offering robust risk assessment tools and 24/7 support will rise.
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‘Smart’ cities will enhance the experience of the business traveller
In October, we attended the Forum for Expatriate Management’s EMEA Summit in London, where speakers highlighted Saudi Arabia’s modernisation efforts. These include the King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, featuring smart immigration tunnels. The country’s initiatives to boost female workforce participation and enhance relocation resources underscore its commitment to supporting expatriates.
As cities invest in smart technologies, they will become more attractive to business travellers. Enhanced connectivity, smart infrastructure, and urban planning will improve corporate housing environments. Cities like Singapore, Amsterdam, and Dubai, known for smart city initiatives, are expected to see an increase in business travel.
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Global trade dynamics will impact business travel
Prolonged inactive growth in China may affect Southeast Asia's trade dynamics, while potential immigration policy shifts in the U.S. could influence the mobility sector. Despite concerns, market sentiment leans towards a soft landing, bolstered by resilient U.S. growth.
At Singapore's GBTA APAC/WERC Conference 2024 speakers analysed the economic landscape. Japan continues to struggle with currency depreciation, but its manufacturing sector is expected to rebound. In China, the property market remains weak, and outbound travel is restricted, despite gains in domestic tourism. Strong economic growth in the region highlights its resilience, despite challenges such as high living costs and China’s slowing economy.
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Education on harnessing data will be essential moving forward into 2025
As highlighted at our Partner Engagement Day, data literacy will be crucial in 2025. Leanne Fowler of TMC, Clarity, observed an "immaturity in data handling" within the industry, with many clients struggling to use data effectively. This gap often leads to basic reporting rather than strategic decision-making.
At the ITM Empower Conference 2024, Shelley Fletcher-Bryant from Advito discussed the role of AI in transforming travel and mobility programmes. She emphasised the importance of leveraging high-quality data to unlock the full potential of AI.
During the session, attendees identified five pitfalls of AI technology:
- Data quality
- Data Accuracy
- Consistency
- Timeliness
- Normalisation
Addressing these challenges will be crucial for travel managers aiming to integrate data insights into broader strategies. In 2025, advanced data analytics tools and staff training will be key to overcoming these obstacles and driving innovation in travel management.
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2025 promises to be a year of innovation, growth, and opportunity. Whether you’re a frequent traveller or a global mobility manager, staying informed will be key to thriving in the year ahead. Let SilverDoor help you seize the opportunities of 2025. Contact us today to explore how we can support your business travel and relocation needs.
