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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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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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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How to host your own Euro 2024 bash: A casual guide for companies
Hey there, football fans and corporate party planners! Euro 2024 is right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate this football fiesta than by hosting your own event? Whether you’re looking to boost employee morale, impress clients, or just have a great time during the tournament in Germany, here’s a laid-back guide to help you score big with your own Euro 2024 event.
Who needs VAR when you’ve got a set-up like this?
First things first: you need to ensure everyone has a front-row seat to the action, no matter where they are in the room. Here’s your game plan:
- Screens galore: The bigger, the better. Opt for multiple big-screen TVs or projectors. Make sure they’re high-def so every goal, foul, and replay is crystal clear.
- Sound system: A good sound system is a must. You don’t want your guests straining to hear the commentary. Go for a surround sound setup to make everyone feel like they’re right there in the stadium.
- Streaming services: Make sure your streaming service is reliable. Whether it’s cable, satellite, or an online streaming platform, ensure you have backup options in case of any hiccups.
- Wi-Fi: Strong, fast, and stable Wi-Fi is crucial. Not only for streaming the match but also for guests who might want to share their experience on social media.
- Interactive elements: Think about adding some fun tech like a live match commentary feed, real-time polls, or trivia games that guests can participate in during halftime.
Fuelling the fun: Kiosk-worthy food and beverages
What’s a football match without some top-notch grub and drinks? Here’s how to keep everyone’s taste buds as happy as their football-loving hearts:
- Classic football snacks: Think big bowls of crisps, popcorn, and nuts. Food that can easily be eaten with your hands and no need for a knife and fork means your guests have a free hand to cheer on their team. Keep it simple but plentiful.
- International flavors: Celebrate the international spirit of Euro 2024 with a buffet that includes dishes from different participating countries. Pizza from Italy, bratwurst from Germany, paella from Spain, fish & chips from England and good old pies from Scotland (not exclusively Scottish but we have it on good authority that the Scots love a pie at the match!) – you get the idea.
- BBQ: If you have the outdoor space, a BBQ is a crowd-pleaser. Burgers, hot dogs, and grilled veggies – something for everyone.
- Beverages: Stock up on a variety of drinks. Have plenty of beer options (of course), but also consider cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options like mocktails, sparkling water and sodas.
- Food trucks: For a unique twist, consider hiring food trucks to cater your event. It adds a fun element and usually offers a great variety of foods.
Be part of the action
A Euro 2024 event is a perfect opportunity to incorporate some team-building activities. Here are some ideas to get everyone involved and strengthen those team bonds:
- Football trivia quiz: DO you know who scored the winning goal in the final of the Euro 2020 competition (incidentally it was delayed due to you-know what), or who was awarded the Golden Boot (award given to the player who scored the most goals)? Someone in your team is bound to! Organize a trivia quiz about football history, Euro tournaments, and fun facts. Create teams and have a friendly competition with small prizes for the winners.
- Penalty shootout challenge: Set up a mini goal and have a penalty shootout competition. This can be a lot of fun and get everyone’s competitive spirit going. Maybe even get the boss in goals.
- Fantasy football league: Set up a fantasy football league for the duration of the tournament. Teams can draft players and compete based on real-life performances. It’s a great way to keep the excitement going throughout the competition.
- Best dressed team: Encourage teams to come dressed in the strips, colors or attire of their favorite Euro 2024 team. Award prizes for the best-dressed team or the most creative outfit.
- Human foosball: If you want to go all out, rent an inflatable human foosball table. Teams strap themselves in and play a hilarious life-sized version of the game.
- Predict the score: Have a prediction game where teams guess the scores of the matches. Keep a leaderboard and award points for correct predictions. The team or person with the most points at the end of the tournament wins a prize.
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Budgeting: Keeping it fun and funded
Last but definitely not least, let’s talk money. You want to throw an amazing party without breaking the bank. Here’s how to keep it smart:
- Set a budget: Decide early on how much you’re willing to spend. This helps you make informed decisions about what’s feasible.
- Sponsorships: If you’re inviting clients or partners, consider seeking sponsorships to offset some costs. Offer them branding opportunities in exchange.
- DIY decorations: Instead of splurging on expensive decor, get creative with DIY decorations. Bunting, flags, and banners in team colors can add a festive touch without costing a fortune.
- Employee contributions: If it’s an internal event, consider a potluck for the food. This can also be a great team-building exercise.
- Bulk buys: Buying food and drinks in bulk can save a lot. Check for bulk deals at wholesalers or online stores.
- Freebies and prizes: A little friendly competition goes a long way but it needn’t be expensive. Many companies have promotional items or gift cards lying around that can be repurposed. Some people will play just for the kudos of winning.
Wrapping it up: Have a ball!
With these tips, you’re well on your way to hosting a Euro 2024 event that will be the talk of the office, and won’t need VAR intervention. Remember, the goal is to create a fun, inclusive environment where everyone can relax, enjoy the game, and build some great memories.
So, gather your team, get planning, and may the best team win (and by that, we mean your event planning team!). Cheers to a fantastic Euro 2024 celebration! 🥳⚽️🎉
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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Discover Maui – The totally tropical destination for your next event
Aloha, event profs! If you are considering the tropical paradise of Hawaii for your next event, then you and your group are in for a treat if you choose the island of Maui. For an island less than 50 miles across, it offers a uniquely diverse blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities, making it ideal for events that will inspire attendees long after they have arrived back home. Let’s explore what Maui has to offer.
The Valley Isle
While it is the second largest of the Hawaiian archipelago, in just a couple of hours drive you can experience Maui’s sunny and protected western shores, it’s volcanic center and its tropical wet and rocky Northeast Coast with its bucket-list ‘Road to Hana’.
Sadly, Maui was devastated by fires at the end of 2023, but in our opinion that makes it even more worthwhile to invest in an event there as it will help support the local communities to build back better and stay #MauiStrong as they refer to it. Only the areas around Lahaina are closed, leaving most of the island in its original beautiful condition for everyone to enjoy. They only ask that visitors respect that they prefer not to discuss the fires and their effects, as so many were affected by the tragic event.
Hotels and venues
Maui offers a range of hotels and venues to suit every event type and format. Wailea offers the largest selection of the large chain properties including the recently refurbished Fairmont Kea Lani to the Four Seasons next door, or for a different setting again, head to the Ritz-Carlton situated in Kapalua on the north-west peninsula.
For venues, most hotels have a range of indoor and outdoor spaces due to the fact the weather is almost always warm and sunny. Do note however that alcohol cannot be served or consumed in public parks or on beaches. Most venues have indoor and outdoor spaces overlooking the ocean so it’s not generally an issue. If a hotel is a bit too ordinary, the Maui Arts and Cultural Center has great meeting space. Or you could surround your attendees with marine wildlife at the Ocean Center. For a more relaxed setting, the Maui Brewing Company also offer private space for up to 300 participants.
Road to Hana 
Maui whale watching tour 
Maui snorkling Activities
Depending on your needs, Maui has it all covered. From spa and beach days to hiking, biking and zip-lining. Explore Maui’s pineapple plantations and hear about the history of Maui Gold or visit the Sugar Museum for some cultural information around what Maui’s agriculture was founded on. Hire several Jeeps and drive your team along the Road to Hana for breath-taking views. Take in the majestic turtles resting on the black volcanic sand beaches or stop for photos in front of the hundreds of waterfalls you will pass by.
For those looking for a truly unique experience that isn’t for the faint of heart, why not organize a sunrise viewing from the top of the Haleakala Volcano. Better still, a doors-off helicopter tour of the island will really appeal to the adrenaline junkies in the group. For others, the snorkeling, diving and whale-watching trips – often nick-named ‘whale-soup tours’ due to the sheer volume of whales you can see – are just enough excitement.
Beautiful all year round, Maui can be expensive and does book up fast in summer and during peak whale-watching seasons. Nevertheless, it is always possible to get a deal if you plan to travel outside the peak seasons.
Most US hubs fly direct to Maui, and you can also fly direct from Tokyo, Auckland and Sydney. Most travelers are likely to have to change, and it can be a long way for many travelers, but with the rise of attendees wanting to extend their stays, who wouldn’t see the appeal in exploring Hawaii, possibly even island hopping to Hawaii’s Big Island? Maui truly is home to some of the world’s most beautiful sites and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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Big Island, Hawaii – Combine the power of nature with a powerful agenda for impactful events
If you’re on the hunt for a conference destination that combines world-class facilities with a twist of adventure, look no further than the Big Island of Hawaii. This island paradise offers a unique blend of business and pleasure that will leave your attendees with unforgettable memories. Let’s dive in!
Where to stay and meet
- Four Seasons Resort, Hualalai: This 5-star resort offers luxury accommodation and meeting spaces. It’s perfect for those looking for a high-end experience and top-notch service.
- Fairmont Orchid: Nestled along the 32 acre coastline of Kohala, this hotel is renowned for its open-air Spa Without Walls, oceanfront dining and as a great option for larger groups with multiple spaces and idyllic sea views.
- Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort: This hideaway retreat offers a unique Hawaiian experience with its thatched-roof hale (houses) and 81 acres (about the area of a large shopping mall) of vibrant flora and greenery. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting peace and high-end luxury.
Must-see sites and unique activities
For incentive events or team-building activities to bolt on to your conferences, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has something for all attendees. Home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, this park offers a unique opportunity to see the power of nature through organized tours or a day of hikes for every level. You can check the park site for volcanic activity to see whether you are likely to witness any steam, lava flows or if eruptions are predicted.
End your event on a literal high with a sunset viewing atop Maunakea. You can arrange charter buses to the visitor center, or private 4×4 vehicles if you want to brave the peak, and in just 2 hours from most hotels you can be 14,000 feet (about 4.27 km) up for a summit view like no other.
Do note that due to its altitude, you must spend time at the rangers check-point to acclimatize for at least 30 minutes before taking the unpaved track to the very top, however the view from the ranger station is almost as impressive if you need to save some time.
As an added bonus, why not stay up there for a picnic dinner and wait for the most amazing stargazing opportunities on the planet? Your attendees will feel like they’re up in amongst the cosmos for a truly unforgettable experience in the clearest skies you can find.
Another evening activity with a difference is snorkeling with manta rays. Not as daunting as it sounds, these gentle giants will glide around serenely, almost like your own personal underwater ballet performance.
You could also experience a high of a different kind through a coffee tour and tasting. The Big Island is renowned for its coffee and a tour of a Kona coffee farm is a great way to learn about this famous brew.
And for those events where you simply don’t want to leave your luxury hotel, then why not arrange a ukulele lesson for your group, offering an opportunity for an immersion into the local music and cultural heritage of Hawaii.
Traveling to the Big Island
You can fly directly to the Big Island from most US hub airports, Tokyo, Auckland and Sydney and from most other countries with a change. You can also fly there from any of the other Hawaiian Islands for a twin-stop trip should you choose to do so. There are frequent flights daily in and out.
So, if you’re ready to shake up your usual conference routine and inject some adventure into your next event, the Big Island of Hawaii is waiting for you. With its luxurious accommodations, breathtaking sites, exciting activities, and unique cultural experiences, it’s the perfect place to mix business with pleasure. Aloha!
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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Accessible travel is a team effort
In June 2022, Victoria Brignell, who is paralysed from the neck down and a wheelchair user, was abandoned on an empty aircraft for an hour and a half after the specialist staff booked to lift her safely from the plane failed to appear.
The image showing Victoria left in her seat alone is enough to shame any airline boss and rightly received widespread condemnation when it was posted online and shared thousands of times.
The incident saw a huge uplift in calls for airlines, hotels, train companies and other travel providers and suppliers to do more to provide an accessible and equal experience for all travelers.
A quick search through social media and you will find countless posts from people retelling their nightmare stories of trying to travel with a disability – from lost wheelchairs to restricting drinking to avoid needing the toilet. A travel manager at last year’s annual ITM conference was quoted as saying: “In many cases employees with disabilities just avoid travel and all the associated benefits and opportunities it gives.”
Accessible experience
A 2022 study by consultancy Accessio, which surveyed 346 travel managers found four in 10 business travelers have accessibility requirements that can affect their travel experience. More than 70 percent of travel managers, however, said they either don’t know or can’t estimate how many of their own travelers have such requirements, particularly since some are hidden such as chronic pain, neurodiversity or mental health challenges.
A separate study by travel agency MMGY Global of around 2500 disabled travelers in the United States found a massive 96% have faced a problem with accessible accommodation while traveling. Four in 10 have had their mobility aid lost or damaged by an airline and six in 10 have experienced extended wait times for mobility assistance at the airport before or after their flight.
Special assistance
Slowly the industry is waking up and we are seeing action to make travel accessible for all. In May, CWT launched its Special Assistance offering that provides an accessible and equal experience for travelers with visible and non-visible disabilities.
The Special Assistance service is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual traveler, with a broad range of support capabilities and services. This includes arranging: airport and airline services such as TSA Cares, service animal reservations, multi-sensory rooms, and fast-track immigration; train and station special service requests such as wheelchair assistance; and suitable hotel accommodation like rooms with reduced mobility facilities.
The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has developed a toolkit to help buyers address traveler accessibility in their policies and practices. The toolkit is the result of industry-wide collaboration to drive best practices and meaningful change in supporting business travelers with visible and non-visible disabilities.
While the travel industry has started to take meaningful steps towards inclusivity, there is still a long way to go to ensure accessible travel for everyone. The widespread sharing of personal stories and the pressure from travelers with disabilities are painful to hear but crucial in maintaining momentum and driving further change. Initiatives like our Special Assistance and the GBTA’s accessibility toolkit are promising advancements, but continuous efforts and collaboration are needed. By addressing the needs of travelers with visible and non-visible disabilities, we can move towards a future where everyone can enjoy the benefits and opportunities that travel provides without facing unnecessary barriers.
Find out more about CWT’s Special Assistance service and how you can add it to your program.
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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Breaking down your travel budget to beat ‘The Great Exhaustion’
Pop culture loves a catch phrase. We’ve had a post-Covid ‘great resignation,’ ‘quiet quitting,’ and the ‘war for talent’ following a full reversal of hybrid and remote working by some organisations. There’s a new term doing the rounds coined by productivity author Cal Newport: The Great Exhaustion.
Newport professes that a steep rise in how much time the average knowledge worker uses digital communication has led to collective fatigue. He cites a report from Microsoft which finds that its users now spend a whopping 60% of their time using digital communication tools—e-mail, chat, and videoconferencing—with only the remaining 40% left for “creation” software such as Word or Excel. One in four workers studied spends the equivalent of a full workday (almost nine hours) each week on e-mail alone.
We all know the frustration of jumping from one call straight to another, getting to late afternoon before there’s headspace to produce tangible work. And then there’s the cumulative fatigue of recovering from the pandemic years, slimmed down teams and the resulting extra workload, inflation and existential questions around the impact of AI and how on earth we go about managing this transition in our day-to-day.
Smart spending for purposeful in-person meetings
Inflation is yet to ease up, an ongoing concern for travel buyers. But given the isolation and digital burnout threatening the wellbeing of employees, is it wise to slash travel to save cash? Understanding the financial pressures facing organisations, a new travel budget calculator by CWT gives travel buyers full visibility of their travel budget allowing them to allocate spend across categories in real-time. The calculator helps to stretch budgets and free up funds effectively irrespective of continued pricing uplift.
CWT and GBTA’s Global Business Forecast forecasts the average cost of airfares to rise 1.8% in 2024, hotel 3.6% and ground transportation 2.1%. The cost of travel is high, but the cost of burnout to today’s employees is significantly higher than a pricey airfare. A burned-out employee costs $3,400 out of every $10,000 in salary through disengaged and less productive work according to Gallup’s 2023 State of the Global Workplace.
Real life, real connections
The antidote to digital burnout, of piecing together information from disparate DMs and emails – of a team call with 20 tiny faces on it – is human connection. It’s social interaction. When timed well, seeing colleagues for the occasional in-person gathering is worth its weight in gold for benefits to motivation, communication, and cohesiveness throughout the year – especially for globally dispersed teams.
Business trips have historically been relegated as a ‘cost of doing business.’ If not directly linked to sales, vital operations and client relations it’s hard to determine if your budget is being used wisely, and even harder to justify internal trips as an investment to senior leadership.
Yet forward-thinking companies are seeing the value of connecting remote teams. Travel has the potential to increase job satisfaction, employee engagement and revenue growth with face-to-face interactions 34 x more successful than an email.
“The one thing that we keep talking about internally is purposeful travel to justify the cost of a trip,” Tracey Horrocks, Director Travel, Fleet & Meetings at GE Healthcare tells CWT, “Because of the dispersed workforce we’re seeing more 15 – 50 person meetings so teams can get together.”
Echoing the trend for purposeful gatherings CWT Meetings & Events managed more than 2.2 million people attending 15,810 events in 2022, across six continents which jumped to more than 30,000 events in 2023, many of them team incentives.
There’s an art and science to business travel decision-making
There’s an art to deciding when and how to get teams together but how do you leverage data to sell the productivity benefits of “non-critical” travel to senior leaders and help counteract ‘the great exhaustion’ among your workforce?
“The idea of traveler wellbeing has been vague,” says Richard Johson, Global Head of CWT Solutions Group, “it’s very difficult to quantify. We can get behind the idea of traveler wellbeing and want to build traveler-friendly programs but don’t use the data points more specifically to measure that in our programs even though travel-focused experiences improve our mental and physical state, reducing the negative factors in the process, and stimulating our creativity.”
CWT Solutions Group consults clients using a wellbeing index based on transaction data placing an impact score on the factors that matter most to travelers including cabin class, flight and layover time, and weekend travel.
In a CWT roundtable about the cost of travel, Head of Travel Jon Bolger echoes the importance of data, “Data doesn’t necessarily tell you the answer, but it tells you where you need to direct your thoughts and your efforts and read patterns. For example, do you have to go business class both ways? We’ve noticed that destinations that weren’t in our top 10, two or three years ago now are so we need to look and understand that. What is the data pointing towards? You need to be able to frame and shape that and answer the ‘so what?’ question. Once you have the data you need to communicate it in different languages. Learn CEO -speak, COO-speak, and CFO-speak. They all want the same thing, but they need it in different languages. Data gives you opportunities to bring leadership the answer to problems they don’t know they have. It’s about showing ways to enable people to return a 6-to-1 back into your business. This is not a wooden dollars exercise,” says Bolger.
It’s notoriously challenging to calculate the ROI of business travel. Now that reams of data on flight, hotel, and ground transportation bookings, and benchmarking are available it’s an easier sell. Knowing how your budget translates into air, hotel and ground transport allocation and using data to consider purpose, wellbeing and sustainability can transform ‘The Great Exhaustion’ into ‘The Great Energizer.’
Assess your spend and allocate your budget wisely using our calculator.
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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Skills for the new venue sourcing specialist
The rules of site selection are changing, and event planners and sourcing specialists need to adapt to ensure venues meet the client brief while juggling a host of related requirements such as accessibility – how easy is it to get to and is it suitable inside and out for people with additional needs? What are the sustainability credentials? Is food and beverage sustainably sourced? What AV and tech is available? What are the contractual terms and where does the client stand in the case of any force majeure cancellation? And that’s before any branding, attendee engagement, speakers or entertainment have even crossed the event planner’s mind.
CWT Meetings & Events’ Stephen Lusher is an expert when it comes to sourcing the right venue for client events. Here, he shares a list of skills venue sourcing specialists like him have developed to meet the evolving needs of clients and their events.
Innovative venues
The trend started some years ago. Many companies decided to move away from hotel meeting rooms and began looking for originality and alternatives to hotel chains. Therefore, our venue sourcing specialists are widening their search to include the new breed of venues. Our teams keep abreast of latest openings, unique and trending venues and up and coming destinations.
Environment and sustainability are hot topics
Sustainability now plays a key role when tasked to find the perfect venue. In-house recycling, energy-efficient systems, or even compostable toilets – venues have a whole range of sustainable elements. Our specialists now need to enquire about environmental policies and credentials to fulfill the briefs we receive from our clients.
Know your client
Now more than ever, it is important to build a stronger working relationship with meeting requestors and understand the bigger picture of the client and the company culture.
The phone call
Calling the client instead of emailing to acknowledge a new request and qualifying over a phone call says a lot more and builds a bond. It is also a more effective channel to exchange ideas and manage expectations.
Owning the meeting request
Understanding the brief in full is fundamental. What is the client’s main aim of the meeting? What is the audience (profiles and demographic)? Knowing the attendees will help find a venue that best fits expectations and that provides memorable takeaway moments and cultural resonance.
Offering a consultative approach
Offering a consultative approach instead of an “order taker” view. Often clients provide a basic brief and suggest a venue / chain based on their understanding or past experiences. Team members should be consultative and provide additional viable alternative options and be confident in their reasoning.
Subject matter experts
CWT Meetings & Events has introduced Subject matter experts (SMEs) to its Venue Sourcing & Contracting Solutions (VSCS) team. These SMEs are the go-to resource on various topics including destinations, sustainability, new openings, unique venues, negotiations and contracting. A specialist is better suited to respond to their area of expertise.
Ongoing education
Collaboration with suppliers and the Supplier Management Team provides practical and ongoing training. These include fam (familiarisation) trips, site inspections and industry events. Knowledge is then shared by the attendees across all of the venue sourcing teams.
Negotiation & contracting skills
Conducting meaningful conversations with suppliers to help settle differences by reaching a compromise that satisfies our clients and leads to best savings and cost avoidance. Our specialists are part of the open dialogue with our preferred suppliers.
If you’d like to put our expertise to the test for sourcing the right venue for your next event, get in touch!
Read more about Venue sourcing
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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Podcast: Your corporate travel budget in the biggest election year in history
The prices of plane tickets, hotel rooms and ground transportation for business travelers are determined by an array of industry and macro-economic factors like capacity, leisure travel volume, inflation, and fuel charges. This year, is there a new driver in the mix?
Over 60 countries have, or will head to the polls in 2024, the biggest global election year in history.
CWT’s Emma Woodhouse talks to Chris Ely, Research Director of the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and Shawn DuBravac, NY Times bestselling author, futurist, economist and analyst about the CWT GBTA Global Business Travel Forecast, whether elections and precarious geopolitical environments will impact the cost of travel, and what companies and organizations of all sizes can expect in the months ahead from their budget allocation.Find out:
- The near-term pricing outlook for airfares and hotel average daily rates, and why.
- The relationship between AI, the changing nature of work, and implications for the value and purpose of business travel.
- What to expect regionally from the price of travel
[buzzsprout episode=’15114857′ player=’true’]
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CWT launches Special Assistance service for business travelers with disabilities
CWT, the global business travel and meetings solutions provider, has launched a Special Assistance service that provides an accessible and equal experience for travelers with visible and non-visible disabilities.
CWT’s Special Assistance offering is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual traveler, with a broad range of support capabilities and services. This includes arranging: airport and airline services such as TSA Cares, service animal reservations, multi-sensory rooms, and fast-track immigration; train and station special service requests such as wheelchair assistance; and suitable hotel accommodation like rooms with reduced mobility facilities.
Travelers using this service have access to a dedicated email and phone number that directs them to a team of travel counselors who have been handpicked based on experience, personal skills, and aptitude to pre-empt and mitigate needs that may occur on a trip. These travel counselors have been through special training to enhance skills such as empathy and awareness, avoiding ableist language, and building trust to reduce the anxiety experienced by many travelers.
One of the main hurdles to delivering a seamless booking experience for travelers who require special assistance is the lack of consistency, with suppliers and stakeholders across the travel industry using widely varying terminologies and processes. To overcome this, CWT has created a digital repository for its travel counselors, giving them access to comprehensive accessibility information related to hotel chains, airlines, airports, ground transport providers and other suppliers. This proprietary and innovative tool has significantly enhanced productivity and smoothed the booking process for travelers.
CWT has also adapted its traveler profile tool to capture special assistance requirements such as wheelchair options, service animals, and extra seats for carers and assistants. This ensures needs are accounted for during every booking and trip amendment, eliminating the requirement for repeated self-disclosure. All travelers’ accessibility requirements are verified with suppliers 48 hours before departure.
“At CWT, we believe that all business travelers should have a seamless and comfortable experience, regardless of their individual needs,” said Stephanie Lewis, Director of Service Design at CWT. “With this new service, we are highly equipped to provide access to specialized support to travelers with visible and non-visible disabilities, empowering them to travel for work with confidence. Developing accessible travel solutions is a collective industry-wide responsibility, and consistency is crucial in getting this right, so we are committed to working closely with our partners to drive meaningful change.”
Available to all customers, the Special Assistance service is currently offered in more than 20 countries, with plans for a global rollout by year-end, marking the latest addition to CWT’s suite of specialized services.
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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Bath – A quintessential blend of elegance and functionality
Bath, an enchanting city nestled in the southwest of England, is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture, rich history, and natural thermal springs. Beyond its tourist appeal, Bath is emerging as an exceptional destination for meetings and events, offering a perfect blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Its iconic architecture is one of the many reasons why the city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, from its Roman origins to the fashionable eighteenth-century designs that form many of the city’s most recognizable buildings.
Recommended venues in Bath
- The Roman Baths: Transport your attendees back in time by hosting an event amidst the ancient Roman Baths. The Great Bath and Terrace offer a truly unique backdrop for memorable occasions.
- Assembly Rooms: This elegant Georgian venue boasts ornate interiors and spacious rooms, perfect for conferences, galas, or product launches.
- Thermae Bath Spa: For a more relaxed setting, consider hosting a networking event or team-building session at Thermae Bath Spa, Britain’s only natural thermal spa.
- Bath Pavilion: Situated in the heart of the city, Bath Pavilion offers versatile spaces suitable for exhibitions, trade shows, or concerts.
- No. 1 Royal Crescent: Experience the grandeur of the 18th century at this historic townhouse, ideal for intimate gatherings or private dinners. The first building at the eastern end of the Royal Crescent is currently the headquarters of the conservation charity, the Bath Preservation Trust, and also operates as a public “historic house” museum displaying authentic room sets, furniture, pictures and other items illustrating Georgian domestic life both ‘above stairs’ and ‘below stairs’.
Unique sites not to be missed
- Royal Crescent: A 18th century crescent-shaped row of 30 terraced houses, this iconic landmark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers breathtaking views of the city. Many notable people have either lived or stayed in the Royal Crescent since it was built over 240 years ago, and some are commemorated on special plaques attached to the relevant buildings. One of the crescent’s 30 townhouses is the No. 1 Royal Crescent museum, and The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, at the centre of the crescent, is made up of No. 16 and No.15.
- Pulteney Bridge: Designed by Robert Adam, and named after Frances Pulteney, wife of a wealthy Scottish lawyer and Member of Parliament (MP), this picturesque bridge spans the River Avon and is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops across its full span on both sides, the others being in Italy (in Florence and Venice) and in Erfurt, Germany. It has been designated as a Grade I listed building.
- Bath Abbey: With its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history dating back to the 7th century, Bath Abbey is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts. The abbey is a Grade I listed building, particularly noted for its fan vaulting. It contains war memorials for the local population and monuments to several notable people, in the form of wall and floor plaques and commemorative stained glass.
- The Circus: a Georgian masterpiece built between 1754 and 1769, this historic ring of townhouses forms a circle with three entrances. It’s said to have been inspired by the Colosseum in Rome. Famous residents have included the painter Thomas Gainsborough, Clive of India, David Livingstone and the actor Nicholas Cage. Running along the top of the front doors and ground floor windows all around the Circus is a frieze which is decorated with 525 pictorial emblems, almost all of which are unique.
Bath Abbey 
The Circus 
Pulteney Bridge Connectivity
Bath is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for attendees traveling from various locations. The city’s proximity to major transportation hubs like Bristol Airport and Bath Spa Railway Station ensures hassle-free travel arrangements for guests.
Recommended Activities for Groups:
Walking Tours: Explore Bath’s charming streets and historic landmarks on a guided walking tour tailored to your group’s interests.
Cooking Classes: Delight your team with a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare traditional British dishes or artisanal chocolates.
Literary Tours: Dive into Bath’s literary heritage with tours focused on Jane Austen or other famous authors who found inspiration in the city.
Major Events
Recent major events in Bath include the Bath Christmas Market, attracting visitors from far and wide with its festive atmosphere and array of artisanal gifts. The Bath Festival, featuring music, literature, and cultural events, is another highlight of the city’s annual calendar.
What Makes Bath Unique?
Bath’s unique combination of architectural splendor, cultural heritage, and natural beauty sets it apart as a distinctive destination for meetings and events. Whether you’re seeking a historic backdrop for your conference or a tranquil setting for team bonding activities, Bath offers an unparalleled experience that will leave a lasting impression on your attendees.
In conclusion, Bath’s timeless appeal, coupled with its modern amenities and convenient connectivity, makes it an exceptional choice for hosting meetings and events. From historic venues to immersive experiences, Bath provides everything you need to create unforgettable moments and successful gatherings. Consider Bath for your next event, and let its charm captivate both you and your guests.
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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NDC Playbook: Distribution dynamics for the future
Last year marked the most active year for New Distribution Capability (NDC) at CWT (and the industry) since the initiative to transform airline retailing launched over a decade ago.
While at the forefront for many years, the legacy indirect distribution technology and standards have not allowed airlines the flexibility to differentiate products and experiences the same way they can via their websites, direct to customer. This created an imbalanced traveler experience.
NDC has since moved from concept to reality for a large segment of the business travel sector as major airlines and content providers unveiled new NDC content initiatives and capabilities.
With diverse definitions of NDC readiness, CWT has positioned itself as a trusted advisor for clients, guiding them while outlining a path for early adopters to access NDC content.
Critical to helping customers navigate the complexities of NDC is our Head of NDC Product, Lee Fulford. Watch Lee discuss with technology company Sabre the experiences and lessons learned in our NDC journey and what the future holds for all players in airline distribution.
Image credits: Adobe Stock
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Malmö – Hit the right note with a Eurovision favorite
Malmö’s prestigious selection as Sweden’s host city for three Eurovision finals (1992, 2013, and 2024) speaks volumes about its allure. Nestled in the southern part of Sweden, Malmö exudes a vibrant energy, complemented by its fusion of Scandinavian charm, contemporary infrastructure, and a diverse cultural landscape. It’s no wonder that Malmö stands out as an exceptional destination for gatherings of all types.
In recent years, Malmö has played host to a diverse range of events, from international conferences to cultural festivals. Notable examples include the Malmö Festival, Scandinavia’s largest city festival, and the Malmö International Film Festival, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world, as well as the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest.
Malmö’s accessibility is second to none, with an efficient network of trains, buses, and even bicycle lanes. The city’s proximity to Copenhagen further enhances its connectivity, offering international flights via Copenhagen Airport just a short train ride away.
Malmö’s allure lies in its seamless blend of tradition and innovation, where medieval castles coexist with cutting-edge architecture. The city’s progressive spirit is reflected in its commitment to sustainability, with initiatives like renewable energy and eco-friendly transportation shaping its future.
Its cosmopolitan atmosphere fosters creativity and collaboration, making it an ideal destination for meetings and events that transcend boundaries and inspire meaningful connections.
Venues with some va va voom
- Perched elegantly at the heart of the city, Malmö Live is not just a venue; it’s an experience. This multi-functional space offers everything from conference halls to concert venues, ensuring that your event leaves a lasting impression.
- Elevate your event to new heights—literally—at the Turning Torso. As the tallest building in Scandinavia, this architectural marvel offers panoramic views of the city and beyond, making it an unparalleled setting for meetings and gatherings.
- Transport your guests back in time with a venue that exudes history and grandeur. Malmö Castle, dating back to the 15th century, provides a captivating backdrop for events, adding a touch of regal splendor to any occasion.
- Home to the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, Malmö Arena is a state-of-the-art venue that can accommodate large-scale events with ease. Its versatile spaces and cutting-edge facilities make it a top choice for concerts, conferences, and exhibitions alike.
Malmö Castle 
Öresund Bridge 
Lilla Torg Things to see and do
- Food tours: Explore Malmö’s culinary delights with a guided food tour, sampling traditional Swedish delicacies and international cuisine along the way.
- Canal cruises: See the city from a different perspective with a leisurely cruise along Malmö’s picturesque canals, ideal for team-building or relaxation.
- Outdoor adventures: From kayaking in the Baltic Sea to hiking in nearby nature reserves, Malmö offers a plethora of outdoor activities for adventurous groups.
- Öresund Bridge: Connecting Malmö to Copenhagen, this iconic bridge is not just a feat of engineering but also a symbol of unity between Sweden and Denmark. The bridge also features in the Nordic noir television series The Bridge, which is set in the region around the Öresund Bridge.
- Lilla Torg: A picturesque square lined with charming cafes and historic buildings, perfect for post-event networking or leisurely strolls.
Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a cultural gathering, or a celebratory event, Malmö offers the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences. With its exceptional venues, vibrant culture, and unmatched hospitality, Malmö invites you to make your next event truly extraordinary – and we can help!
Image credits: Adobe Stock