BTA - Post-Pandemic Business Travel Stimulating UK Economic Growth despite Hybrid Working Concerns, New Study Shows

The Business Travel Association (BTA) today publishes a new report based on analysis from CBI Economics, detailing the value business travel provides to the UK economy.

Given the supply chain, indirect contributions and employee spend, research by CBI Economics shows the total impact of the business travel sector to the UK economy in 2022 was £27.5 billion in GVA (around 1.3% UK total). It accounts for more than 283,500 FTE jobs.

The study shows the potential for a strong return for business travel post-pandemic with seven out of ten businessesrecognising that travel played a vital role in the day-to-day running of an enterprise. Nearly seven out of ten using business travel, believe it is vital in helping organisations meet their business objectives.

Clive Wratten, CEO of the BTA, said: “Our report unequivocally shows that business travel is so much more than suited executives turning left on a plane. It impacts the entire business network across the UK and worldwide.”

Meetings with existing clients, prospects, and attending exhibitions and shows, are the top reasons for travel.

84% of business travellers used private cars as a means of transport for domestic business travel, followed by long-distance / inter-city trains at 59%. Air travel was used by 95% of international business travellers.

While the number of journeys remains below 2019 levels, 95% of firms recognise that a return to business travel is important.

Equally, eight out of ten state a preference for face-to-face meetings that give immediate feedback, the ability to read a room, develop deeper relationships and often lead to swifter transactions.

However, seven out of ten businesses cite virtual meetings as the main reason for limiting business travel, along with concerns around cost (60%) and a growing concern for the environment (29%) also mentioned.

Wratten added: “We cannot let the hybrid legacy of remote meetings check economic growth that has for generations been stimulated by face-to-face meetings. It is crucial that we now focus our efforts on promoting and protecting public transport networks to sustainably keep Britain moving.”

“Business leaders need to stop and think which is more likely to help their organisations grow and prosper – a distant and constrained Teams or Zoom call that is hard to read or the ability to meet in person.”

The study highlights that in-person contact promotes a higher level of trust and stronger working relationships. One in two businesses highlight face-face contact as the number one success factor in winning new business.

The report is now available on the BTA website. The findings detail the economic contribution of the business travel sector, as well as the ways it impacts businesses across networks.

The study’s findings launch at the BTA’s Spring Conference on 6th March 2023.

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GVA (gross value added) - the value generated by any unit engaged in the production of goods and services.

FTE (full time employee)

Notes to Editors
To view the full report, click here.

About CBI Economics
CBI Economics is the economic consultancy division of the CBI. We offer a suite of services including bespoke economic analysis and business surveys. With unrivalled policy knowledge and business insights combined with economics expertise, we can develop a narrative to achieve your desired outcomes and use.

About the BTA
The BTA is the authority on business travel. Working collaboratively across the industry and with the government to promote the integral role of business travel and events to the wider economy.

Originally founded in 1967, the BTA has a diverse membership and roster of industry partners. It’s TMC membership accounts for over 90% of UK expenditure on managed business travel, delivering value for money and great service to business travellers in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. The BTA focuses on delivering practical solutions to challenges and market changes, as well as supporting best practice, sustainability and the well-being of travellers. 

For more information on BTA please visit: www.thebta.org.uk or call 020 3657 7010.

For more information about the BTA, please contact:
Thyme Francis / Angie Milojkovic
Pembroke and Rye
Tel: +44 (0)7570662874 / +44 (0)7570 662707
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