Navigating the future of business travel

Khor: Businesses can turn travel into a strategic advantage by investing in innovative and inclusive approaches. Photo: Holiday Tours & Travel

THE business travel market is poised for growth this year, buoyed by new tech innovations and the rise of purpose-driven, flexible travel, according to Khor Chew Hong, executive vice-president of Holiday Tours & Travel (HTT).

Artificial intelligence and data analytics, bleisure travel (the concept of blending business and leisure travel) and employee well-being are expected to be key factors shaping the industry, as businesses strive to adapt their travel programmes to meet evolving needs.

“In 2024, the business travel sector made a strong recovery, driven by the resurgence of in-person engagements and a renewed focus on strategic travel,” he notes.

“Organisations increasingly prioritised trips that delivered clear value, while employees embraced opportunities for meaningful connections and professional growth.”

He notes that fluctuations in the ringgit last year resulted in outbound travellers becoming more cost-conscious. More leisure travellers, for instance, opted for destinations in South-East Asia such as Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, where the ringgit could be stretched further.

Corporate travel saw a more measured impact, with businesses putting increased emphasis on cost optimisation, leveraging travel partnerships, group deals and early planning to mitigate currency-related costs.

“We anticipate renewed interest in long-haul destinations as the ringgit stabilises or strengthens,” he adds. “Regardless of currency challenges, the desire for travel remains resilient.”

Companies are thus expected to continue focusing on strategic travel planning, striking a balance between in-person interactions and budget considerations.

“Business trips will be more targeted, prioritising high-impact meetings, client engagements and events that yield tangible returns.”

Business upgrade

With 50 years of experience in providing tailored solutions for corporate, leisure and group travel clients, HTT has cemented itself as a trusted choice for seamless, secure travel experiences.

“We take a traveller-first approach to deliver experiences that go beyond logistics, from ensuring personal comfort and safety or addressing cultural or religious considerations,” Khor says.

This focus on high-quality service and customisation has made the travel management company a go-to for businesses that want more positive approaches in their travel policies.

One potential advantage is improved employee morale and satisfaction. “Innovative travel strategies include streamlined booking tools, flexible itineraries and wellness-focused policies – making employees feel valued and supported,” Khor explains.

Alleviating logistical burdens and the stress of travel can improve staff productivity and engagement. “Healthier, happier employees are more focused and effective, both during their trips and upon returning to work,” he says.

“Businesses need to understand that innovative and inclusive travel policies are not just logistical measures but a reflection of their broader commitment to employee safety, satisfaction and inclusivity,” Khor stresses.

Reaching new heights

With bleisure travel on the rise in recent years, businesses are increasingly shaping their corporate travel programmes to accommodate more flexible, hybrid trips that incorporate work and play.

“Progressive travel policies are beginning to enable employees to extend their business trips for leisure, whether by covering partial accommodation costs, providing additional vacation days, or supporting multi-destination itineraries,” Khor explains.

Along with crafting more flexible travel policies, companies are leveraging technology to support the shift towards bleisure travel while ensuring compliance.

Digital tools and platforms can help simplify the planning and approval process for hybrid travel, allowing employees to customise their itineraries while staying within approved parameters, Khor says.

On a broader level, advances in technology are set to play a transformative role in corporate travel. For instance, dynamic analytics platforms will be useful in empowering businesses to make smarter decisions in travel management and planning.

“In 2025, we anticipate that companies will be able to access real-time dashboards that combine travel patterns, compliance tracking and cost analyses into actionable insights,” he says.

“This will empower businesses to make data-driven decisions on travel policies, optimise spending and enhance the traveller experience.”

Additionally, incorporating safety innovations like wearable tech for trips will allow travellers access to instant support in case of emergencies, providing assurance and peace of mind during business trips.

“The future of travel lies in smarter and tailored technologies designed to enhance efficiency, safety and overall convenience,” Khor opines.

“By investing in strategies that balance technology, well-being, and experiential value, businesses can transform travel into a strategic advantage that reinforces company culture, boosts employee satisfaction and strengthens employer branding.”