Recent research by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and FREENOW reveals a significant shift in European business travel preferences post-pandemic. The study, titled ‘The Evolution of Ground Transportation for Business Travel,’ indicates a strong inclination towards rail travel.
Approximately 49% of businesses have increased their spending on rail travel, with a notable 77% of employees expressing a preference for trains during business trips. This trend is attributed to various factors, including the increasing emphasis on sustainability.
Sustainability as a Key Factor
Sustainability has emerged as a major concern for travel managers. The data shows that 38% of travel managers now prioritize eco-friendly transportation more than before the pandemic.
This shift aligns with Europe’s broader Net Zero targets. A significant 75% of respondents are tracking ground emissions from business travel, although challenges persist in accurate data collection due to the use of multiple ground travel suppliers.
Flexibility and Ride-Hailing Apps Gain Traction
Flexibility in travel options remains crucial, with 65% of business travelers often using multiple modes of transportation on a single trip. The study also highlights the growing integration of ride-hailing apps in business travel, with 77% of travelers using these apps during work trips.
Companies are encouraged to create separate business accounts for these apps to streamline administrative processes.
Ground Transportation Complexity and Costs in Europe
The GBTA survey conducted across several European countries reflects the complexities and rising costs associated with ground transportation. Approximately 49% of European travel managers cite cost containment as their primary concern, followed by sustainability and employee experience. The rise in fuel prices has significantly impacted business travel, with a 50% increase in concern over fuel costs.
Restoring safe transport depends on protecting employees and passengers post-COVID-19. Previously, the European Commission recommended that ground transportation include allocating sufficient space on trains, buses and ferries so passengers can maintain distance, as well as continuing to make hand-sanitizing products available. The EU also advised encouraging online check-in and ticketing as much as possible to reduce queues and person-to-person contact.
Diverse Preferences Among European Travelers
Preferences vary among European business travelers, with comfort and experience often prioritized over cost and sustainability. However, French business travelers show a higher concern for cost containment.
The inclusion of carsharing, eScooters, and eBikes in travel programs is on the rise, reflecting the evolving landscape of ground transportation in Europe.
How New Travel Trends Reshape EU Visitor Experiences and Immigration Policies
The evolving ground transportation trends in Europe have implications for EU visitors, including business travelers, group travelers, investors, digital nomads, and students. The increased focus on sustainability and the wide adoption of rail and eco-friendly transportation modes may influence their travel choices. Long-term travelers and immigrants might need to adapt to these shifting preferences and the growing importance of sustainability in their mobility decisions.
These trends may also indirectly affect EU immigration policies, particularly concerning the integration of sustainable transportation options for immigrants. As EU countries strive to meet their environmental targets, policies encouraging the use of sustainable transport modes could become more prevalent, affecting long-term travelers and immigrants.
The emphasis on cost-effective and eco-friendly transportation could also influence policy decisions related to public transport accessibility and infrastructure development for newcomers. One such policy is the EU Blue Card, first introduced in 2009, which grants non-European nationals the right to reside and work in the EU. Originally, very stringent rules applied regarding eligibility, but following a revised directive in 2021, the standards have been relaxed, making it easier for highly-qualified and experienced workers to relocate.
As sustainability becomes more critical across all aspects of EU policymaking, similar efforts to attract skilled immigrants could incorporate preferences for eco-friendly transit and mobility. The EU Blue Card and other immigrant-focused directives may begin to factor environmental impact into their guidelines to align with Europe's sustainability goals. This could reshape long-term immigrants' transportation decisions and accessibility to sustainable mobility options upon relocating.
Conclusion
The GBTA and FREENOW study sheds light on the changing dynamics of business travel in Europe. With a clear shift towards sustainability, rail travel, and the use of ride-hailing apps, both travel managers and business travelers are adapting to a new landscape. These trends not only reflect changing preferences but also indicate a broader commitment to environmental goals. As the business travel sector continues to evolve, it will be crucial for companies, travelers, and policymakers to stay attuned to these developments and their broader implications.