Introducing the latest myCWT product and service enhancements
Building on our digital, omnichannel myCWT platform, our new products and services will simplify travel management for you and your employees – anytime, anywhere, anyhow.
Note: Featured services may not be available in your country at this time. Please reach out to your CWT representative for more details.
Hear from Chief Product Officer, Erica Antony as she shares the key product highlights of 2024, along with the key areas driving innovation.
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2040: Baseline, Boom or Bust
As we enter an era of rapid transformation and unprecedented challenges, it is essential for travel managers, meeting & event planners, and corporate decision-makers to look ahead and frame our current strategic thinking with a clear vision of the future. Business travel and meetings and events (M&E) are poised for significant change over the next decade and a half, driven by a complex interplay of sustainability goals, technological advancements, evolving work models, and geopolitical dynamics.
In this paper to mark the 10th anniversary of our Global Business Travel Forecast, we explore, for the first time, a long-term vision of the future and potential trajectories through three distinct scenarios, each offering insights into how these forces should affect policy-making, budgeting and priorities. By examining these scenarios, we can better understand the diverse possibilities that lie ahead and the strategic imperatives required to thrive in each potential future.
Based on trajectory data analysis and interviews with industry leaders, behaviorists and climate tech founders, this forward-looking approach enables us to anticipate changes, strengthen our strategies, and make informed decisions that align long-term objectives. It is through this lens of foresight and adaptability that we can build resilience, seize opportunities, and navigate the complexities of the future.
We invite you to reflect on the insights presented, and consider how your organization can prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Together we can ensure that travel and meetings remain catalysts for growth, scalability and sustainable practices.
- Scenario development is both an art and a science
- Megatrends Shaping the Future of Business Travel, Meetings and Events
- Sustainability goals the new crux of corporate policy
- Technology Revolutionizes Travel Management
- Modern work models spark new travel patterns
- Changing demographics open doors to new opportunities
- Three Scenarios: Base case, boom and bust
- Future-proofing strategies
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CWT GBTA Global business travel forecast 2025
When it comes to pricing, global business travel has finally reached an enduring, higher baseline. Prices will continue to rise in 2025, but only moderately, so expect a period of normalized growth.
However, this pricing environment, one of marginal gains and price regularity, is fragile. Global leisure travel has now realized a lot of its pent-up demand, while corporate travel has been resurgent, with 2024 edging at preCovid levels.
There are many factors at play, whether its volatile oil prices, labor costs and constraints, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical factors. As this elevated baseline edges upwards, albeit marginally, travel budgets will come under increased scrutiny, especially as travel patterns and attitudes change.
It’s why business travel can’t be viewed in a silo, and the true value to an organization must be fully realized. This forecast can help with those calculations.
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Capitalize on emerging technologies in corporate travel
Technological advancements are accelerating at an unprecedented pace. How will emerging innovations like Generative AI, blockchain, and self-sovereign identity (SSI) transform corporate travel?
BTN and CWT probed global CEOs, travel managers, industry consultants and tech experts on the promises, questions, and expectations these innovations raise and how they are set to reshape traveler experience, cost control and service delivery in corporate travel and events.
Download and discover
- The technologies that will have the greatest impact on corporate travel in the next 2-5 years
- How these emerging technologies are poised to control costs, enhance service and security, and boost efficiency
- The critical challenges, opportunities, risks and roadblocks each innovation raises
- What travel managers, buyers and experts anticipate from these innovations
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Four ways to control your M&E budget in 2025
The latest GBTA Global Business Travel Forecast predicts that 2025 will see a moderation in prices, with smaller increases compared to previous years. In the meetings and events sector, however, the price per attendee is expected to rise by 4.3% in 2025, significantly outpacing the 0.6% increase in air travel and the 1.9% rise in hotel costs. Continued recovery and growing demand for larger, more complex events can explain, only in part, the M&E anomaly.
The meetings and events industry encompasses a diverse range of sub-sectors, including foodservice, lodging, meetings and conventions centres, technology, audiovisual services, attractions, entertainment and transportation. Given its interconnectedness with various other industries, fluctuations in the economic cycle can significantly impact its outcomes. Furthermore, societal changes can significantly influence the sector, especially in a highly globalized industry where bookings are made months or even years in advance. In such a dynamic environment, the ability to quickly adapt is crucial.
Adjusting behaviors at the individual event level and making strategic decisions at the program level can help reduce meetings and events expenditure. Here are four effective ways to control your budget in 2025.
Advance Planning
As the saying goes, time is money, and this holds true when planning an event. Planning ahead allows CWT to secure better deals with vendors, venues, and suppliers. Many providers offer discounts for early bookings, which can significantly reduce costs. In addition, early planning provides more time to compare competitive prices and increases the chances of securing preferred vendors and suppliers at expected rates.
Last-minute bookings often result in limited availability, leading to more expensive alternatives, such as expedited shipping, higher labor costs, or premium rates. Furthermore, advance planning enables a more accurate headcount of attendees, helping to avoid over or under-ordering supplies like food, materials, or seating. Both scenarios can lead to wasted resources and unnecessary costs.
Consolidating travel and meeting expenditures
While various factors and individual corporate decisions often prevent travel and meetings from being grouped together, companies can still strengthen their negotiating position and secure better rates and terms. The key advantage lies in volume; the higher the volume, the more favorable the conditions.
When corporate negotiations aren’t feasible, CWT offers exclusive agreements with hotels and venues to benefit its clients. Additionally, tracking travel and meeting expenses together makes it easier to identify overlapping costs and eliminate redundancies, ensuring that resources are allocated more efficiently.
This streamlined approach also provides greater visibility into spending patterns, enabling more strategic decision-making when selecting vendors and locations. Ultimately, consolidating these expenditures allows organizations to reduce administrative overhead, take advantage of group rates, and ensure their budgets are used as effectively as possible.
Using the right technology
Utilizing event management software can streamline planning processes, enhance efficiency, and provide valuable data analytics to monitor and control expenses effectively. Recent research from Event Industry News reveals that the most widely used AI technologies in the events industry are focused on event content creation, audience engagement, and operational automation. The latter aims to boost productivity. Not long ago, teams were bogged down by lengthy Excel files detailing attendees’ itineraries. Today, a range of technologies can store all relevant data and updates, significantly reducing the time spent on tasks that once took days.
We, as an industry, have made significant progress from the days of manual processes. Corporations that invest in the right technology or partner with CWT stand to gain substantial benefits. By maximizing technology use, organizations can reduce the need for high-touch interactions. For example, automating tasks like room allocation or pairing attendees for shared rooms can save considerable time that would otherwise be spent manually managing these details.
Choosing second-tier cities
Second-tier cities can often be the ideal destination for organizing events, offering a perfect balance of affordability, accessibility, and unique local experiences. Compared to first-tier cities, which are known for their high venue costs, expensive accommodations, and overall pricey logistics, second-tier cities typically offer significant cost savings without sacrificing quality.
Hotel prices and event venue rates in second-tier cities are often 30-50% lower than in major global hubs such as London or New York, allowing event planners to stretch their budgets further. These cities also feature modern infrastructure, excellent transportation networks, and a variety of venues that can cater to both large-scale and more intimate events.
Additionally, the local culture and generally less crowded environment can provide a refreshing atmosphere, offering attendees a break from the hustle and bustle of more touristic destinations. For organizations looking to host a memorable, cost-effective event, second-tier cities present an attractive alternative, providing great value without compromising the overall experience.
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Why does local knowledge matter when organizing events
The primary task of a sourcing specialist is to find the right venue for our clients’ meetings and events anywhere in the world. Sourcing specialists dig deep to understand the needs of the client, and present feasible options that best fit the brief. Similarly important is having local knowledge and resources to better understand any local and regional factors that may influence a particular event.
These skills can be learned and honed over time but it would be impossible for anyone to claim knowledge of every city, country or venue a client might be interested in. That’s why a global network of specialists with local knowledge are an incredible asset to have at your disposal. Here are just a handful of some of the talents they bring to the (meeting) table.
Alleviate language barriers
Words have many meanings. Did you know that a “marquee” in the US represents the canopy sign over the theatre entrance and in the UK it represents a large tent for social or commercial functions? This type of misunderstanding can cost time and money even when teams working on the same project speak the same language.
The clock is ticking: In a global market, time is essential
Destinations around the globe have changed what is acceptable during the contracting process. Due to the constraints of the market, they are less likely to hold onto rates and space for long periods of time while internal executives make decisions. The market moves quickly and so does space.
Seasonal deals may not be the greeting you first thought
The rates in many Caribbean destinations during the summer months are usually good value, but did you know that hurricane season begins in June? Understanding why a destination has a value season provides insight into the probability of it impacting your event. If it’s mud-season in the mountains your group will not be able to do a horseback riding activity for example.
Special event date conflicts
Being familiar with events already taking place in your chosen location that will impact yours is essential. If you are interested in going to the famous golf resort of Pebble Beach in California, and you select dates that run during the PGA (Professional Golfers Association of America), we know that if you are able to find space it will be at premium pricing. Also take into account local or religious festivities, such as Ramadan or Lunar New Year – these may not be your first thought, but events in locations where these are celebrated or with attendees who observe them need to be taken into account.
Unique venues & new openings
Knowing what is new and unique is easy to figure out in your own town. What if you want something new or unique in a location that you have never been to? Sometimes Google is not enough and our teams around the world come to the rescue with their local knowledge.
Knowledge of destination trends
When a destination becomes a trend, it’s key to understand why that is. For example, what looks like a great destination in the hottest new Netflix show may not translate into an easily accessible or interesting destination for your group (thanks to the power of CGI and TV trickery). Knowledge from our industry conferences and forums such as IMEX helps us learn about new and upcoming destinations so we can get the lowdown early and get ahead of the trends.
Understanding the logistics of traveling to and from the destination
Being aware of the logistics involved in getting people to and from your venue is crucial. If, for instance, your group is flying into Denver for an afternoon meeting, booking a hotel in downtown Denver will mean your attendees incur a long transfer from the airport – booking something closer will maximize the meeting time with your attendees. Our local teams are familiar with the distances and make recommendations based on group needs and expectations.
Force majeure and mitigating factors
The safety of attendees is paramount. The pandemic brought about varied turmoil, and events organizers, venues and logistics providers pivoted to ensure measures were in place for the safe return of in-person meetings and events, and tools like CWT travel essentials helped people plan for travel in challenging circumstances. The pandemic was also the catalyst for the shortage in people working in hospitality which is still impacting some places today.
Other force majeure challenges include seasonal weather (remember, hurricane season in the Caribbean) and even conflicts like the war in Ukraine, public riots in France and striking workforces. It is therefore important to review and monitor travel warnings and, if a destination has any issues, the question becomes: are they the right fit for your event?
Read more about Venue sourcing
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Birmingham, UK – A prime destination for meetings & events in the heart of England
Birmingham, the UK’s second largest city, is becoming one of the top destinations for meetings and events and there are many reasons that explain it: their rich industrial heritage, world-class venues, excellent transport connectivity, and a vibrant cultural scene. Just two hours from London by train, Birmingham offers a cost-effective alternative to the capital while offering world-class venues, rich history, and unique team-building experiences.
Exceptional conference and meeting venues
Birmingham boasts a variety of high-quality conference centers and hotels with outstanding conference and meeting facilities. Here are some top picks:
- The ICC Birmingham (International Convention Centre) – A premier venue in the city centre, offering flexible spaces for conferences and exhibitions with state-of-the-art facilities. It’s also connected by Air-Link monorail directly to Birmingham Airport.
- Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre – Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers modern, fully-equipped conference rooms with flexible layouts. With stunning city views and premium service, it’s a great option for both large conferences and intimate business meetings.
- Hilton Birmingham Metropole – As one of the largest conference hotels in the UK, the Hilton Birmingham Metropole features 31 meeting rooms, a grand ballroom for up to 2,000 attendees. Situated near the NEC and Birmingham Airport, it’s perfect for large-scale corporate events.
- Novotel Birmingham Centre – Positioned on Broad Street, this hotel combines affordability with high-quality meeting spaces. Its versatile conference rooms come with modern AV equipment, making it ideal for business presentations, training sessions, and workshops.
If the myriad of ‘traditional’ event spaces aren’t your thing, Birmingham boasts a variety of venues that cater to different event needs. Some of the most notable include:
- The Library of Birmingham – A stunning architectural landmark and the largest regional library in Europe, providing an extraordinary backdrop for meetings and networking events.
- Aston Hall – A magnificent 17th-century Jacobean mansion, perfect for exclusive and historic-themed events.
- The Custard Factory – A creative and quirky venue in the city’s vibrant Digbeth district, ideal for innovative and unconventional gatherings.
- Resorts World Arena – Suitable for large-scale conferences and entertainment events, with excellent on-site dining and leisure facilities.
Hall of Memory, Library of Birmingham and Baskerville house 
Aston Hall Birmingham 
Birmingham Canal Navigations Affordable without compromising on quality
One of Birmingham’s key advantages is cost-effectiveness. In addition to more affordable venue hire, expenses for accommodation and dining in Birmingham are generally lower than in London. This affordability allows companies to allocate their budgets more effectively, ensuring a high-quality experience for attendees without incurring the premium costs associated with the capital.
A city with character & unique experiences
Beyond the boardroom, Birmingham offers a rich industrial history and vibrant culture, making it an exciting destination for corporate events. Once known as the “Workshop of the World,” Birmingham’s industrial past is still visible in its stunning architecture and museums. Venues like the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and the Black Country Living Museum offer excellent opportunities for networking and social events in historic settings.
Birmingham is the birthplace of the Balti curry, a must-try. Originating in the 70s, this dish is cooked in a thin, wok-like steel bowl, giving it a unique taste. A Balti in Birmingham is not just a meal—it’s an experience that reflects the city’s rich multicultural heritage.
Recommended activities for groups
Birmingham provides a diverse and exciting range of group activities, making it an ideal destination for team-building exercises, leisure outings, and unique experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, Birmingham has something to offer.
- Cooking classes: Learn the secrets of Indian cuisine in one of the many cooking schools, reflecting the city’s diverse food culture. Birmingham is the birthplace of the Balti and home to over 100 Balti houses.
- Canal boat tours: With more canals than Venice, a relaxing way to explore the city from a different perspective.
- Sporting activities: Visit Edgbaston Cricket Ground or take part in indoor skiing at the SnowDome.
- Cultural tours: Explore the city’s heritage through guided walking tours and museum visits. You could even take in a Peaky Blinders tour – the hit TV show is inspired by the city’s real-life 19th-century gang history.
- Cadbury World: Discover the sweet heritage of Birmingham by visiting this iconic chocolate factory, which offers group tours and interactive experiences.
Getting to and around Birmingham
Birmingham’s central location makes it an ideal hub for corporate gatherings. The city is served by Birmingham Airport, offering international connections, and three major train stations providing direct services to London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and beyond.
Birmingham’s unique charm lies in its blend of history, innovation, and diversity. From its industrial past to its modern-day status as a thriving cultural and business hub, Birmingham offers an authentic and welcoming experience. The city’s culinary scene, multicultural influences, commitment to sustainability, and cost effectiveness make it an attractive destination for event planners seeking something special.
Whether you’re planning a small business meeting or a large-scale event, Birmingham’s unbeatable combination of venues, transport links, and cultural appeal makes it a city worth considering.
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Marrakech: The Red City that embraces the soul of Morocco
Marrakech, the “Red City” of Morocco, has long been a symbol of enchantment and tradition. Strategically close to Europe, the city is a mere 90-minute flight from Madrid or three hours from London or Paris. The city is an economic hub and home to mosques, palaces and gardens, which makes it an ideal destination for conferences and incentive trips.
This lively urban city has so much to offer, with maze-like alleys leading to thriving souks and of course its famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square. The pleasant climate, with mild winters and warm springs, ensures a comfortable experience for attendees. Near the historical city centre, Marrakech region offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes and sand dunes to explore.
A blend of business and leisure
Marrakech seamlessly combines business facilities with leisure activities, making it a top choice for conferences and incentive trips. The city’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers endless opportunities for exploration, from bustling souks to historic landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque and the Majorelle Garden.
The allure of Moroccan hospitality
Moroccan hospitality is legendary, rooted in a tradition of warmth and generosity. From the moment guests arrive, they are treated to an array of sensory delights: the aroma of freshly brewed mint tea, the vibrant colors of traditional décor, and the smiles of gracious hosts. This hospitality extends to every aspect of the stay, ensuring attendees feel valued and inspired.
A culinary journey like no other
Marrakech is a paradise for food lovers. Groups can indulge in sumptuous banquets featuring traditional Moroccan dishes like tagines and couscous, often served in atmospheric riads or under the stars. For a hands-on experience, cooking classes can be arranged, offering participants a chance to master the art of Moroccan cuisine.
The famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square
At the heart of Marrakech lies the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a UNESCO-recognized cultural hub. By day, it’s a bustling market with storytellers, snake charmers, and artisans. By night, it transforms into a lively scene of food stalls, music, and traditional performances, offering visitors an authentic taste of Moroccan life.
Sunrise splendor in the Atlas Mountains
For those seeking a tranquil escape, a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains offers breathtaking views and unforgettable moments. This experience is perfect for team-building or as a reward for top performers, providing a perspective that captures the essence of Morocco’s natural beauty.
Jemaa el-Fnaa square 
Urban parks of Marrakech 
Desert Erg Chebbi Unique experiences in the desert and beyond
No trip to Marrakech is complete without venturing into the desert. Incentive groups can:
- Embark on camel treks across the golden dunes, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of the Sahara.
- Enjoy thrilling 4×4 adventures or sandboarding excursions.
- Conclude the day with a magical evening under the stars, complete with traditional music and a gourmet feast.
Accommodation for every occasion
Some of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands have beautiful residences in Marrakech, offering venues tailored to corporate needs:
- Mélia Marrakech: Set among palm trees and with splendid views of the majestic Atlas Mountains. With incredible red sunsets and a privileged climate. This hotel provides state-of-the-art conference facilities and luxurious amenities, ideal for both business meetings and leisure.
- Hilton Ksar Char-Bagh: Located in a beautifully tended palm grove, the hotel is a 14th-century Riad that exudes grandeur and style. This property offers exceptional service, ensuring a seamless experience. Although the Medina is close by, Ksar Char-Bagh feels a world away from its bustle and heat.
- Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa: The hotel seamlessly combines contemporary designs with French elegance. Its opulent event spaces and luxurious amenities make it a top choice for high-profile gatherings.
- Four Seasons Resort Marrakech: Renowned for its lush gardens and impeccable service, the Four Seasons is a haven for high-profile events and incentive trips, offering elegant meeting spaces and indulgent relaxation options.
Plan your 2025 event in Marrakech with CWT
As businesses seek meaningful ways to connect and motivate their teams, Marrakech emerges as a destination that promises inspiration, relaxation, and cultural discovery. With its luxurious accommodations, vibrant experiences, and unmatched hospitality, Marrakech is ready to host unforgettable congresses and incentive trips in 2025.
Let the “Red City” transform your next incentive into an extraordinary journey, let CWT help you!
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New Orleans – Soul of the South: Where the Mississippi shapes creole, cajun, and jazz charm
New Orleans, a city born from the blend of French and Creole heritage, celebrated for its vibrant music scene, famous cuisine and the mighty Mississippi river, is also an exceptional destination for meetings and events. Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a large convention, or an intimate executive retreat, the Crescent City offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities that will leave attendees inspired and engaged. With a melting pot of French, Spanish, and Creole influences, the city boasts an unmatched hospitality that ensures attendees feel at home. From street food to fine dining, the flavors of New Orleans are distinctive, and live music can be found around every corner, offering an unparalleled nightlife experience.
Recommended venues
When it comes to hosting events, New Orleans offers a diverse range of venues that cater to any occasion, from historic landmarks to modern conference centers. Whether you’re seeking a grand ballroom in a luxury hotel, an atmospheric jazz hall, or a unique museum setting, the city’s venues provide the perfect backdrop to create unforgettable experiences.
Hotels with event spaces
- The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
This luxury hotel offers over 60,000 square feet of event space, including the legendary Blue Room and an opulent grand ballroom. - Hyatt Regency New Orleans
Located in the heart of downtown, the hotel features 200,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, perfect for large conferences and exhibitions.
If you’re looking for something a little more unique and out of the ordinary, you might want to consider any of these;
- The National WWII Museum
Host your event in one of the museum’s impressive spaces, including the U.S. Freedom Pavilion, featuring towering aircraft and immersive exhibits that create a truly memorable atmosphere. - The Civic Theatre
New Orleans’ oldest theatre, blending historic charm with state-of-the-art technology, provides a stunning backdrop for conferences, product launches, and galas. - Preservation Hall
An iconic jazz venue that offers an authentic New Orleans experience, ideal for intimate receptions and networking events.
Group activities to remember
New Orleans is packed with iconic landmarks and hidden gems that showcase its fascinating history and lively spirit. From world-renowned squares to picturesque neighborhoods, the city offers countless opportunities for attendees to explore and immerse themselves in its unique charm. Here are a few;
- Jackson Square: A historic landmark surrounded by charming restaurants, boutiques, and the famous St. Louis Cathedral.
- French Quarter: The heart of New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and lively street performers.
- Garden District: Home to stunning mansions and oak-lined streets, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls.
- Steamboat Natchez Cruise: Enjoy a scenic ride along the Mississippi River with live jazz music and local cuisine.
- Culinary tours: Explore the city’s legendary cajun flavors with stops at renowned eateries for gumbo, po’boys, and beignets.
- Swamp tours: Experience the natural beauty of Louisiana with an exciting airboat ride through the bayous.
- Ghost tours: Delve into the city’s haunted history with guided tours of historic, spooky sites.
- Mardi Gras: The Ultimate Experience: No discussion of New Orleans is complete without mentioning Mardi Gras, the city’s most famous festival. Taking place annually in the weeks leading up to Lent (February and March), Mardi Gras features elaborate parades, stunning costumes, and an infectious party atmosphere. It’s an excellent opportunity for groups to experience the city’s culture, network in a lively setting, and take part in the festivities by attending a masquerade ball or joining in on the famous bead-throwing tradition.
Mississipi River Steamboat 
Jackson Square during twilight 
Mardi gras decorations in New Orleans Music at the centre
Renowned as the birthplace of jazz, the city’s vibrant music scene offers a kaleidoscope of sounds, from soulful blues to funky brass bands and lively zydeco. Legendary venues like Preservation Hall keep traditional jazz alive in an intimate setting, while Tipitina’s showcases a mix of funk, rock, and local legends. The House of Blues delivers a mix of modern acts and blues classics, and the historic Maple Leaf Bar is a hotspot for live performances, including everything from brass bands to jam sessions. On Frenchmen Street, clubs like The Spotted Cat and Blue Nile pulse with energy, offering nightly live music that captures the city’s unique spirit. Whether on street corners, in clubs, or at festivals like Jazz Fest, New Orleans’ music scene is an immersive experience.
Getting there and getting around
New Orleans is well-connected with easy accessibility for both domestic and international travelers. The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) serves major airlines with direct flights to over 50 destinations, making it a convenient hub for attendees arriving from across the globe. Once in the city, visitors can take advantage of the iconic streetcars, which provide a scenic and convenient way to navigate New Orleans’ historic neighborhoods. Additionally, the downtown and French Quarter areas are highly walkable, allowing attendees to explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere and cultural landmarks with ease.
Whether you’re planning a large-scale event, an incentive trip or an intimate gathering, New Orleans provides an unforgettable backdrop that blends business with pleasure. Let the city’s spirit inspire your next meeting or conference!
Image credits: Adobe Stock
- The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
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dss+ signs new global partnership with CWT
CWT has been appointed the global business travel partner for dss+, a leading provider of transformational operations management consulting services. CWT will support the business travel needs of dss+ employees across 25 markets around the world, as well as provide the company with solutions to make their travel program more efficient and sustainable.
Among the reasons for its decision, dss+ highlighted CWT’s comprehensive data reporting capabilities, as well as its proven “follow-the-sun” service model ensuring continuous support and assistance for travelers, regardless of the time zone. This first-time consolidation of its travel program also enables dss+ to leverage CWT’s strong relationships with ecosystem partners, unlocking greater value.
“At dss+ we help our clients to save lives and create a sustainable future. We are excited to partner with CWT to align our global travel operations with our core values of safety and environmental stewardship by having the ability to access travel plans should a need for traveler support arise, and to access real data for carbon reporting,” said Thorsten Querfurt, Chief Operations Officer, dss+.
“We are honored that dss+ has selected us as their global travel partner,” said Phil Wooster, EMEA Head of Sales, CWT. “We have extensive experience in supporting professional services companies with managing their travel programs. In an increasingly complex corporate travel market, our aim is to arm dss+ with the tools, resources, services, and information they need to maximize the most value from their travel spend while also meeting their sustainability objectives.”
CWT is a leading global partner in business travel, meetings, and events. Operating across six continents, we deliver sustainable, tailored solutions that help organizations connect, engage, and thrive in an evolving world. Our myCWT platform integrates advanced technology with human expertise to simplify travel and enhance traveler and attendee experiences. Extensive global coverage, seamless data integration, AI-driven analytics, and carbon-conscious travel tools enable businesses to optimize their travel and meetings programs while delivering measurable value.
With 150 years of industry experience and a deep commitment to partnership, CWT collaborates with clients to shape the future of business travel and events, making them more efficient, responsible, and impactful.
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Visa requirements and other travel restrictions
Use this tool to understand visa, passport, COVID-19 testing, and other regulations in your destination country. Make informed and timely decisions based on factors including trip origin, destination, travel dates, traveler nationality and current restrictions delivered in a simple format. Please view important disclaimer information below.
This tool provides information from a third party supplier for which CWT is not responsible. By using the tool, you have agreed (a) you are solely responsible for confirming the accuracy, suitability, and consequences of using the information provided through the tool and (b) to CWT’s website terms of use at https://www.mycwt.com/legal/terms-of-use/. If you do not agree, do not use the tool.
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Consider these 3 workforce trends before you design your travel policy
100 years ago, women made their way into roles traditionally taken by men. Nowadays A.I is finding its way into roles traditionally taken by humans. What will the next wave bring? Whatever seismic shift comes next, “Leaders must prepare for a range of potential futures and incorporate agility into their strategic planning,” posits 2040: Baseline, Boom or Bust, a new report that analyses the potential influence of climate change, digital transformation, disruptive technologies like AI, skills shortages, demographic shifts and geopolitical volatility on the evolution of business travel and meetings. According to the current trajectory nearly 18% of the global workforce will engage in business travel by 2040. That figure could rise to 22% if companies fully integrate sustainable practices and advanced technologies, predicts the report.
Stephanie DeNote, Vice President, Product Management, CWT highlights workforce trends as the crux of policy decisions in the near and longer term, “I think a lot of the changes we see happening across our industry today are aligned with demographic shifts in the workforce,” she says, “The oldest millennials are in their late thirties or early forties and likely taking on senior leadership roles, while the older Gen Z-ers are at the start of their careers. Travel companies are clearly adapting their products and services to meet the needs, preferences, and expectations of these travelers.”
Over the next decade and a half, technological, social and climate forces will spur a rise in gig and freelance employment, remote work and the popularity of combining business and leisure travel compelling some travel managers to rethink their strategies for the long-haul. Understand and integrate these three trends to boost employee well-being and organizational agility.
Bleisure Boom: Rise in demand for combining business and leisure travel
“The interest in bleisure travel appears to have soared in the aftermath of the pandemic,” says DeNote, “With travel prices—and the cost of living in general—having increased significantly over the past few years, the prospect of adding a few leisure days to a work trip has become even more attractive to travelers.”
Research from Future Market Insights reveals that the bleisure tourism industry accounts for over 30% of the global business travel market which stands at USD 709.2 billion today and on its way to a whopping USD 4,219.5 billion by 2034.
The growth in combining business and leisure is encouraging some typically business-focused hotels to extend their amenities to cater for families, experiences and leisure time leading to a positive effect on work-life balance. Organizations should, however, consider several factors, “Companies need to consider the implications of bleisure travel for their duty of care, risk management, costs, data tracking and reporting requirements, among other factors, when designing their travel policies and deciding if and when to allow it,” says DeNote.
Nice Gig: Freelancing and contract work on the up
Another major workforce trend is the growth of the gig economy characterized by short-term or freelance work. The World Bank estimates there are already between 154 million and 435 million online gig economy workers globally, making up 4.4% to 12.5% of the global workforce. The higher estimate includes those who engage in gig work as secondary or supplementary employment. As the gig economy expands, freelancers and contractors might travel more frequently for short-term projects and client meetings, leading organizations to consider their approach to catering to guest travel for non-employees, consultants, guest speakers and potential candidates.
Far and Away: Remote work to become the norm
“By 2040, as companies become more reliant on digital platforms for communication and collaboration, the necessity for physical presence diminishes potentially leading to a reduction in travel related to routine business engagements, and as more companies adopt a remote-first approach,” reads 2040: Baseline, Boom or Bust, “Flexible work schedules are also transforming travel habits, allowing employees to travel outside traditional business hours and thus altering typical travel patterns.”
The total number of digital nomads has ballooned to over 35 million, a trend that could negate the need for frequent travel. However, it could increase demand for flexible, short-term accommodations and co-working spaces at various destinations, transforming how and where business activities are conducted.
“Flexible and hybrid work models are here to stay as most employees today expect at least some degree of flexibility,” says DeNote, “However, many companies are still trying to find the right balance between in-office and remote working. But it does raise its own set of challenges and considerations, and it is prompting companies to rethink how they manage their corporate travel programs. Relying heavily on virtual meeting and collaboration tools can lead to employees feeling disengaged and unproductive. It’s therefore unsurprising that we have seen a rise in travel for small meetings, as organizations want to ensure their employees have some regular in-person face time to foster greater creativity and collaboration. In light of this trend, we have introduced new features in our myCWT web and mobile apps designed to simplify team travel. For example, travelers can share a live view of their itinerary with their colleagues, which updates in real time when any changes are made to the bookings. The recipients can then join the trip and book the same flights and hotels in the shared itinerary with just a few clicks.”
Remote working brings with it compliance concerns. Employers and their travelers could be at risk of fines and sanctions if they do not have the correct immigration and tax protocols in place. CWT has partnered with a leading global specialist in business traveler compliance management, “For our clients who have subscribed to this service, we can provide a data feed of their travel bookings to our partner’s platform, which automatically assesses individual trip data and proactively alerts nominated stakeholders, travel managers, and their travelers to specific tax and immigration compliance requirements pre-trip. This eliminates the headache of navigating these complexities and helps keep travelers and their employers fully compliant in the evolving landscape of a mobile workforce,” adds DeNote.
Gig and freelance work, remote work and combining work and leisure travel are set to grow in popularity.
Read 2040: Baseline, Boom or Bust for strategic insight into the future of work and travel and how they can improve your travel policy.
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AI in business travel: Managing the risks
Hallucinations, bias and autonomous systems? Is AI risky business, and how do travel industry players safeguard against risk at this critical juncture? CWT’s Leonidas Constantinou, Senior Machine Learning Engineer, Xiaolan Sha, Senior Director of Data Science, Gordon Coale, Head of Enterprise Architecture, and Chief Architect Matthew Newton chat chatbots, models for the future and government interfaces. Beware.
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AI in business travel: Where the opportunities lie
From dynamic data analysis like we’ve never seen before to making travelers and agents hyper-productive , where do the greatest opportunities lie for AI in business travel? CWT’s Leonidas Constantinou, Senior Machine Learning Engineer, Xiaolan Sha, Senior Director of Data Science, Gordon Coale, Head of Enterprise Architecture, and Chief Architect Matthew Newton chart a path forward.
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AI in business travel: Hype or game-changer?
Have attitudes to Gen-AI reached Gartner’s trough of disillusionment? How does its potential differ from other emerging tech applications in corporate travel?
CWT’s Leonidas Constantinou, Senior Machine Learning Engineer, Xiaolan Sha, Senior Director of Data Science, Gordon Coale, Head of Enterprise Architecture, and Chief Architect Matthew Newton debate the pitfalls and potential to transform – well, everything.
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State of the Nations: Your 2025 round-the-world guide to optimizing your travel policy and spend
Price volatility is finally moderating, making planning easier for businesses, even as prices rise. Still, on the back of the biggest election year in history (2024), macroeconomic and travel industry supply-demand dynamics will vary dramatically from country to country in 2025.
From North America’s steady demand coupled with Trump-administration uncertainty, inflation-driven cost spikes in some Latin American countries, and the Asia-Pacific region’s uneven recovery, CWT Solutions Group Vice President Richard Johnson and New York Times bestselling author, economist and futurist Dr. Shawn DuBravac join forces to deliver essential guidance around local and regional pricing outlooks for 2025.
Find out:
- Why business travel is reclaiming its dominance over leisure at key destinations.
- How changes in government leadership, sustainable practices and geopolitical tensions could drive pricing adjustments and alter travel patterns.
- Actionable tips to optimize your travel policy, including flexible pricing models and localized negotiation strategies.
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