Global Travel Advisors, And Influencers Flock To International Travel Event To Discuss Future Of AI In Industry And New Google Features At Excel London – Travel And Tour World

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Thousands of global travel advisors, including experts in business travel, leisure travel, and corporate travel, will gather at ExCeL London for the Business Travel Show Europe and TravelTech Show 2024. This significant event has attracted a diverse array of professionals from the airlines travel, cruise travel, and hotel industries, as well as travel influencers and buyers. They are discussing new AI at Excel London. Major airlines like United Airlines, Air France, China Airlines Stand: AP4, easyJet Stand: AP1, Hainan Airlines Stand: AP8, ITA Airways Stand: AP6, Latam Airlines Stand: AP3, Luxair Luxembourg Airlines Stand: AP5, United Airlines Stand: K41, Southwest Airlines are sponsoring the event, highlighting their commitment to serving the needs of business travelers. The show is not just about airlines and accommodation; it also features a strong presence from leading online travel agencies (OTAs) that cater to both corporate and leisure travelers. Booking.com, a pioneer in the online travel space, will showcase its latest innovations in accommodation booking and travel planning. Expedia Group, known for its extensive range of travel services, from flights to vacation packages, will be demonstrating how they are evolving to meet the needs of modern travelers. CWT (formerly Carlson Wagonlit Travel), a leading global travel management company, will present their solutions for managing corporate travel efficiently. Egencia, another major player in corporate travel management, will highlight how their platform integrates travel services to simplify business travel planning.

At the Business Travel Show Europe 2024, which is currently underway, numerous participants are showcasing their latest features and routes, presenting innovative technology with enhanced functionalities designed to facilitate more efficient trip planning. This event has become a bustling hub where travel advisors and planners, event industry professionals, and leaders from the corporate travel world converge. Travel And Tour World, with its impressive global readership of one million, is actively participating as an international media partner, delivering extensive coverage and insights from the show to audiences worldwide. This collaboration underscores the critical importance of keeping abreast with industry advancements and leveraging the myriad networking opportunities that the show offers to all stakeholders in the travel sector.

The Business Travel Show Europe 2024

The event is featuring over 230 exhibitors, including major airlines, hotel chains, and technology providers. With more than 8,800 attendees expected, the show promises to be a hub of activity and opportunity for anyone involved in corporate travel management.

Influential Figures Attending the Business Travel Show Europe 2024

The Business Travel Show Europe is a premier event that attracts a diverse array of participants from the travel industry. Among the anticipated attendees are renowned travel influencers and advisors who play pivotal roles in shaping travel trends and business travel strategies worldwide. Here’s a glimpse of some notable influencers and advisors expected at the show:

Key Panelists

1. Carolyn Pearson (nee Carr) – CEO and Founder of Maiden Voyage
   • Maiden Voyage is a global leader in providing safety solutions for female and LGBTQ+ travelers. Carolyn Pearson emphasized the need for comprehensive safety measures that cater to diverse traveler needs. She advocated for more robust policies and training for staff to handle various accessibility requirements.
   • Key Focus: Enhancing travel safety for all, especially women and LGBTQ+ communities.
2. Helen Moon – CEO and Founder of EventWell®
   • Helen Moon’s work with EventWell® focuses on mental health and wellbeing in the events industry. She highlighted the importance of creating inclusive environments that consider mental health and accessibility. Helen stressed the need for event organizers to adopt holistic approaches that cater to both physical and mental health needs.
   • Key Focus: Integrating mental health considerations into travel and event planning.
3. Justine Baynes – Marketing and Communications Director at British Wheelchair Basketball
   • Justine Baynes shared insights from the perspective of athletes and individuals who require wheelchair accessibility. Her discussion centered on the physical barriers that wheelchair users face and how the industry can implement practical solutions to make travel and events more accessible.
   • Key Focus: Removing physical barriers and enhancing accessibility for wheelchair users.

At the Business Travel Show Europe 2024, Aniko Nagy, CCTE and Global Travel Category Manager at Schneider Electric, shared valuable insights on the current challenges and future directions of corporate travel management. She highlighted that the biggest hurdle she faces is the “broken travel experience due to highly fragmented travel content.” This fragmentation complicates the travel process, making it less efficient and more stressful for both travel managers and travelers.

To address this, Nagy suggested that Travel Management Companies (TMCs) could significantly ease the burden by providing “access to intelligent, multi-source content with servicing and corresponding structured, quality, real-time data.” This approach would streamline the booking process, enhance data accuracy, and ultimately improve the overall travel experience.

Regarding sustainable travel, Nagy firmly believes in its feasibility. She proposed that achieving sustainability in corporate travel requires moving beyond mere emissions calculations and revamping existing travel policies to integrate comprehensive sustainability strategies. This holistic approach would ensure that sustainability becomes a core component of corporate travel programs.

Looking ahead, Nagy identified artificial intelligence (AI) as the next major innovation poised to transform business travel. AI’s potential to analyze vast amounts of data and automate complex tasks could lead to more personalized and efficient travel experiences.

Nagy also emphasized the importance of traveler wellbeing, offering practical advice for busy business travelers. She recommended spending at least eight minutes daily connecting with someone from your close circle to boost oxytocin, known as the “safety hormone.” Additionally, she advocated for the benefits of a ten-minute break to alleviate stress and maintain mental clarity during hectic travel schedules.

Reflecting on the significance of the Business Travel Show Europe, Nagy noted that it’s a crucial event in her calendar. She finds it “inspiring and educational to be around so many talented, dedicated, and curious industry experts from the whole travel ecosystem.” This gathering provides unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking, and staying updated on the latest industry trends.

Key Takeaways from Aniko Nagy’s Insights:

• Biggest Challenge: Fragmented travel content disrupts the travel experience.
• Solution for TMCs: Provide integrated, real-time data from multiple sources.
• Sustainable Travel: Move beyond emissions metrics to include broader sustainability strategies.
• Next Big Innovation: Artificial intelligence will significantly impact business travel.
• Traveler Wellbeing Tip: Connect with close ones daily and take short breaks to reduce stress.
• Importance of the Show: It’s a vital event for learning and connecting with industry leaders.

Insights and Takeaways

• Comprehensive Accessibility: The panel underscored the importance of addressing all aspects of accessibility, from physical accommodations to mental health support. This holistic approach ensures that business travel can be inclusively safe and enjoyable for everyone.
• Industry Collaboration: Collaboration across different sectors within the travel industry is crucial. Airlines, hotels, event venues, and travel agencies must work together to develop and implement inclusive practices.
• Ongoing Education and Training: Continuous education and training for staff on accessibility issues are essential. This includes understanding the unique needs of travelers with disabilities and providing appropriate support and accommodations.
• Policy Development: Developing and enforcing policies that prioritize accessibility is critical. This includes updating facilities to be more accessible and ensuring that all communication is clear and inclusive.

The show has become a critical platform for exploring how the future of travel is being shaped by various factors such as technology, sustainability, and changing geopolitical landscapes. Here’s a closer look at some of the key themes and sessions from the event:

1. Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility:
   • Many sessions are dedicated to sustainable travel practices, discussing how companies can reduce their carbon footprints and implement eco-friendly travel policies. For example, Amon Cohen and Katharina Navarro have shared insights on integrating sustainability into corporate travel programs.
   • Companies like Amadeus and Microsoft are highlighting their commitments to sustainability and how they are helping clients achieve greener travel options.
2. Travel Technology Innovations:
   • The TravelTech Show, running concurrently, showcases cutting-edge technology transforming the travel sector. Exhibitors like Concur Travel and TripStax are presenting tools that streamline travel management and enhance the traveler experience.
   • The Business Travel Innovation Faceoff featured companies like Groundspan and Zenmer, demonstrating their latest products to a panel of judges and attendees, showing how technology can solve modern travel challenges​.
3. Geopolitical and Economic Trends:
   • Veteran BBC journalist Tanya Beckett opened the event with a keynote on the impact of geopolitical events and upcoming elections on the business travel sector. This set the stage for discussions on how global changes are influencing travel policies and corporate strategies​​.
   • Sessions also covered risk management and how companies can navigate the complexities of travel during uncertain times, led by experts like Clare Francis from WTW and Steve Cuschieri from Haleon.
4. Diversity and Inclusion:
   • The show has placed a spotlight on creating inclusive travel programs that cater to a diverse workforce. Discussions have addressed how businesses can ensure that their travel policies are inclusive and equitable for all employees, with contributions from leaders like Kerry Douglas of the Institute of Travel Management​.

Notable Speakers and Companies

Several influential speakers are sharing their expertise at the event:

• Charlie Sultan, President of Concur Travel, discussed innovations in travel technology and how they are adapting to new trends and user needs​.
• Andy Hoskins from Business Travel News Europe provided insights into the evolving landscape of business travel and the importance of adapting to change​​.
• Lucy Bryans from EY and Geert Bruyninckx from Capgemini addressed how major corporations are managing their global travel programs in light of new challenges and opportunities​

Business Travel Advisors and Buyers

The show will also see participation from senior travel advisors and buyers who are crucial in making corporate travel decisions. These professionals represent major companies and organizations and will be at the forefront of discussions on enhancing travel programs and adapting to new travel technologies.

• Caroline Strachan: Managing Partner at Festive Road and a recognized leader in the corporate travel industry, Caroline Strachan brings a wealth of experience in managing global travel programs and strategies.
• Paul Dear: As a Global Travel Director at RELX Group, Paul Dear has extensive experience in managing large-scale corporate travel operations. His insights into travel management and procurement are highly valued in the industry.
• Catherine Logan: Senior Director at GBTA (Global Business Travel Association) Europe, Catherine Logan’s expertise in business travel management will be crucial in discussions about the future of corporate travel in Europe.

Participants

Exhibitors at the Business Travel Show Europe 2024 include a diverse range of companies, each bringing something unique to the table:

Airlines at the Show
United Airlines – Stand: K41
United Airlines is a major U.S. carrier that connects numerous global destinations. They are showcasing their business travel solutions, including their Polaris business class and MileagePlus loyalty program.

Air France – Stand: AP4
Air France is highlighting its extensive network and premium services tailored for corporate travelers, such as La Première and Business Class.

More Info: Air France
China Airlines – Stand: AP4
As Taiwan’s leading airline, China Airlines focuses on its connectivity across Asia and premium in-flight services designed for business travelers.

More Info: China Airlines
easyJet – Stand: AP1
This low-cost carrier is showcasing its business travel packages, which offer flexibility and convenience for corporate travelers.

Hainan Airlines – Stand: AP8
Known for its luxury services, Hainan Airlines is promoting its extensive route network and premium offerings like their business class suites.

ITA Airways – Stand: AP6
Italy’s new national carrier is presenting its services aimed at reconnecting Italy with the world, focusing on business class comfort and connectivity.

LATAM Airlines – Stand: AP3
LATAM is the largest airline in Latin America, offering extensive routes across the Americas and showcasing their premium services for corporate clients.

Luxair Luxembourg Airlines – Stand: AP5
Luxair is highlighting its business travel solutions and network that connects Luxembourg to major European hubs.

Southwest Airlines – Stand: AP2
As a major U.S. low-cost carrier, Southwest Airlines is known for its customer-friendly policies and is showcasing its services tailored for business travelers.

• Hotels:
  • Aparthotel Birmingham
  • Stand: F58
  • Aparthotel Birmingham is showcasing its impressive range of accommodations and eco-friendly initiatives at the Business Travel Show Europe 2024. Here are the key details:
  • Accommodation Options:
    • Offers 10 types of luxury suites across 161 units.
    • Suites range from 22sqm studios to spacious two-bedroom and terraced apartments.
    • Designed to cater to various needs, from short business trips to extended leisure or family stays.
  • Sustainability:
    • The refurbished site, previously the Royal Angus Hotel, boasts an outstanding Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of “10 A”.
    • Operates as a gasless site, using 100% renewable energy sourced from solar and wind power.
    • Incorporates advanced heat pumps and heat recovery systems, eliminating fossil fuel use.
    • Recognized as one of Birmingham’s most sustainable commercial developments, significantly outperforming industry averages in emissions reduction.
  • Eco-Friendly Design:
    • Focus on modern and eco-conscious infrastructure.
    • The facility’s commitment to sustainability makes it a leader in green hospitality solutions.
• Apex Hotels
  • Stand: L70
  • Apex Hotels is also participating in the Business Travel Show Europe 2024, offering insights into their high-quality accommodations and services. Here’s what they bring to the table:
  • Accommodation Variety:
    • Apex Hotels offers luxurious stays with a focus on comfort and convenience.
    • Known for their well-appointed rooms and premium amenities tailored to business and leisure travelers alike.
  • Commitment to Excellence:
    • The hotels provide exceptional service and facilities, catering to a wide range of guest needs.
    • Locations are strategically placed in key city centers, ensuring accessibility and ease for travelers.
  • Sustainability Initiatives:
    • Apex Hotels are dedicated to sustainable practices, including efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote eco-friendly operations.
  • Visitor Engagement:
    • At their stand, visitors can learn about the various hotel properties, special offers, and loyalty programs aimed at enhancing the guest experience.
• Travel Technology Providers:
  • Amadeus: A leader in travel technology, Amadeus will showcase its latest solutions for travel management.
  • SAP Concur: Specializing in expense and travel management software, SAP Concur helps businesses streamline their travel operations.
  • Travelport: A global technology company providing distribution, technology, payment, and other solutions for the travel industry.
• Other Key Exhibitors:
  • Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Offering flexible and reliable car rental services for business travelers.
  • American Express Global Business Travel: A leading provider of travel management services.
  • Booking.com: Known for its extensive booking services, crucial for managing corporate travel accommodations.

Venue: Excel London

Excel London is an expansive exhibition center located in the Royal Victoria Dock area of East London. Here are some key details about the venue:

• Address: 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1XL.
• Size: The venue offers over 100,000 square meters of flexible event space, including two major exhibition halls and numerous meeting rooms.
• Accessibility: ExCeL London is easily accessible via multiple modes of transportation:
  • By Train: The venue is served by the Custom House station on the Elizabeth Line and the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), providing quick connections to central London and beyond.
  • By Air: London City Airport is just a 10-minute drive away, making it convenient for international visitors.
  • By Car: Ample parking is available at ExCeL London, with pre-booking options to secure a spot.

Highlights of the Business Travel Show Europe 2024

• Educational Sessions: Over 50 sessions featuring industry experts discussing topics such as sustainable travel, expense management, and the latest in travel technology.
• Networking Opportunities: Dedicated networking zones and events, including a hosted buyer program designed to connect senior travel buyers with suppliers.
• Innovations Hub: Showcasing the latest technological advancements in travel management, providing attendees with insights into new tools and solutions.

The Schengen Area

Importance in Business Travel

The Schengen Area, consisting of 27 European countries, allows for passport-free travel across its member states. This facilitates seamless movement for both business and leisure travelers, making it a crucial region for the travel industry. Participants from Schengen countries play a significant role in the Business Travel Show Europe, reflecting the importance of this region in global travel dynamics.

List of Schengen Countries

1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Czech Republic
4. Denmark
5. Estonia
6. Finland
7. France
8. Germany
9. Greece
10. Hungary
11. Iceland
12. Italy
13. Latvia
14. Liechtenstein
15. Lithuania
16. Luxembourg
17. Malta
18. Netherlands
19. Norway
20. Poland
21. Portugal
22. Slovakia
23. Slovenia
24. Spain
25. Sweden
26. Switzerland
27. Croatia

These countries contribute significantly to the global travel market, and their presence at the Business Travel Show Europe underscores their importance in the business travel sector.

Countries Benefiting from the London Business Travel Show

1. United Kingdom
   • Local Impact: As the host country, the UK sees significant advantages from the Business Travel Show. It boosts local businesses, hotels, and service providers, fostering economic growth and promoting London’s status as a global business hub.
   • Networking Opportunities: UK companies have the chance to forge new partnerships and explore business opportunities on an international scale.
2. United States
   • Market Expansion: US firms can tap into European markets, exploring new business prospects and partnerships within the EU and beyond.
   • Innovation Showcase: American companies often use the platform to unveil new travel technologies and services, reinforcing their market leadership.
3. Germany
   • Trade and Investment: German businesses leverage the show to enhance trade relations with UK and other international partners, promoting their robust engineering and technology sectors.
   • Travel Efficiency: Germany’s emphasis on efficient travel and logistics solutions finds a ready audience at the show, facilitating growth in these sectors.
4. France
   • Cultural Exchange: French firms benefit from the proximity to the UK, allowing for frequent business exchanges and cultural interactions that bolster bilateral ties.
   • Luxury Travel: France’s strong presence in the luxury travel sector aligns well with the upscale focus of many exhibitors and attendees.
5. India
   • Emerging Markets: Indian businesses gain exposure to new markets and investment opportunities, supporting the growth of their burgeoning business travel sector.
   • Tech Innovations: India’s thriving tech industry often showcases innovative travel solutions that appeal to a global audience at the show.
6. China
   • Global Expansion: Chinese companies use the event to expand their international footprint and explore investment opportunities in Europe and the UK.
   • Tourism Boost: China’s focus on outbound travel is supported by networking opportunities that enhance their connections with global travel service providers.
7. Australia
   • Long-Haul Connectivity: Australian businesses benefit from improved connectivity and travel solutions for long-haul routes, enhancing their international business operations.
   • Trade Relations: The show facilitates deeper trade relations with European counterparts, promoting Australian goods and services.
8. Japan
   • Technological Showcases: Japan’s cutting-edge travel technologies and services often take center stage, attracting attention and investment from global markets.
   • Cultural Diplomacy: The event provides a platform for Japanese companies to strengthen cultural and business ties with the UK and other nations.
9. Brazil
   • Market Opportunities: Brazilian firms explore new business travel opportunities in Europe, expanding their reach and fostering international partnerships.
   • Travel Innovations: Brazil’s dynamic travel and tourism industry showcases its innovations, appealing to a diverse global audience.
10. South Africa
    • Investment Gateway: The show serves as a gateway for South African businesses to attract investment and explore new markets in Europe and the UK.
    • Tourism Growth: Enhanced exposure promotes South Africa as a key destination for business and leisure travel, supporting its tourism sector.
11. United Arab Emirates
    • Luxury and Business Travel: The UAE’s strong presence in luxury and business travel is highlighted, attracting clients and partners from around the world.
    • Strategic Partnerships: The event offers opportunities to build strategic partnerships and enhance the UAE’s role as a global business hub.

London: An Economic Powerhouse

London is not just a city; it is an economic powerhouse that plays a crucial role on the global stage. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of London is a testament to its significant influence. As of 2023, London’s GDP stands at approximately £564 billion, making it one of the most economically robust cities in the world . The city’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in finance, technology, creative industries, and tourism.

Top Convention Centres in London

London is home to some of the world’s most prestigious convention centers, which host countless business events, exhibitions, and conferences each year. Here are some of the top venues:

1. ExCeL London
   • Location: Royal Victoria Dock
   • Features: One of the largest convention centers in London, offering flexible spaces that can accommodate a wide range of events from small meetings to large-scale exhibitions .
2. Olympia London
   • Location: West Kensington
   • Features: Known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, Olympia hosts numerous international trade shows and conferences, providing a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities .
3. The O2
   • Location: Greenwich Peninsula
   • Features: Besides being a premier entertainment venue, The O2 also houses versatile spaces for business events and conferences, including the expansive O2 arena .
4. The QEII Centre
   • Location: Westminster
   • Features: Located near iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the QEII Centre is ideal for high-profile conferences and events, offering state-of-the-art facilities .
5. Business Design Centre
   • Location: Islington
   • Features: This stylish venue is perfect for trade shows, conferences, and exhibitions, known for its distinctively modern design and excellent service .

Exploring London: Must-Visit Tourist Spots

Beyond business, London is a city brimming with cultural and historical attractions that make it a must-visit destination for tourists. Here are some top spots to explore:

1. The British Museum
   • Highlight: Home to over 8 million works, it’s one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the world, offering insights into human history and culture .
2. The Tower of London
   • Highlight: A historic castle on the River Thames, known for housing the Crown Jewels and its rich history as a royal palace, prison, and fortress .
3. Buckingham Palace
   • Highlight: The official residence of the British monarch, this iconic palace offers visitors a glimpse into the royal life with its grand architecture and the Changing of the Guard ceremony .
4. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
   • Highlight: These landmarks are not only symbols of London’s political heritage but also marvels of Gothic architecture, offering guided tours and stunning views along the Thames .
5. The London Eye
   • Highlight: This giant Ferris wheel provides breathtaking panoramic views of London, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists .
6. The West End

Highlight: Known as London’s entertainment district, the West End is famous for its theatres, shopping streets like Oxford Street, and vibrant nightlife .

TravelTech Show 2024

Running alongside the Business Travel Show Europe is the TravelTech Show 2024, which focuses on the latest technological advancements in the travel industry. This event provides a platform for travel tech companies to showcase their innovative solutions and for attendees to explore new technologies that can enhance their travel operations.

Exhibitors at the TravelTech Show 2024

The TravelTech Show 2024 will feature a wide array of exhibitors, each highlighting their cutting-edge technologies and solutions:

• Bridger Ai Limited: Offering AI-driven solutions for travel management.
• eRoam Pty Ltd: Specializes in travel booking and management software.
• HashStudioz Technologies Pvt Ltd: A technology provider focusing on custom software solutions for the travel industry.
• Pax2pay Limited: Providing payment solutions tailored for the travel sector.
• Revenue Analytics: Experts in data-driven revenue management tools.
• Sugati Travel: Offering CRM solutions specifically designed for travel agencies.
• UBIO Ltd: Innovators in automation and booking technologies for travel services.

At the TravelTech Show 2024, Susie Vowinkel, Managing Director of Travel at Google, discussed how Google’s data-driven approach is transforming the travel industry. Her keynote highlighted how Google’s tools and platforms, like Google Flights and Google Hotels, revolutionize customer engagement and operational efficiency. Attendees learned how to leverage these tools to enhance their digital presence and optimize travel services. Google’s influence on the industry, through its integration of search capabilities and travel services, continues to reshape how travel is searched, booked, and experienced, providing travelers with seamless access to information and booking options.

Key Features of the TravelTech Show 2024

• Tech Tours: Guided tours of the exhibition floor, allowing attendees to explore multiple tech providers efficiently.
• Expert Sessions: Opportunities to book 20-minute slots with technology experts who can provide insights and solutions to specific challenges.
• Networking Events: Multiple events, including a drinks reception and after-party, designed to foster connections between industry professionals and tech innovators.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The TravelTech Show 2024 is set to be an incredible convergence of global B2B travel leaders and innovators. This event is crucial as it addresses the rapidly evolving landscape of the travel industry. With the advent of AI and the increasing focus on sustainability, it’s imperative for trip advisors, travel planners, and tour operators to adapt and integrate these technologies into their operations. Embracing AI can enhance customer experiences, streamline operations, and provide personalized travel solutions, while prioritizing sustainability ensures that the travel industry grows responsibly and ethically. The TravelTech Show is the perfect platform to explore these advancements and collaborate on shaping the future of travel.”

The Business Travel Show Europe 2024 and TravelTech Show 2024 at ExCeL London are set to be transformative events for the business travel and travel technology sectors. With thousands of global participants, including significant representation from the Schengen countries, these shows provide unmatched opportunities for learning, networking, and exploring the latest innovations. Whether you are a travel advisor, buyer, or tech provider, these events offer a comprehensive platform to enhance your knowledge and connections in the dynamic world of business travel.