Business Travel News

The biggest travel management companies keep getting bigger, but the digital era has ushered in a wave of startups that are rapidly winning over business travelers. The legacy companies will have to modernize to compete in the years ahead.

The travel management space will probably continue to consolidate, with no real end in sight. That said, even the largest companies will start to lose ground if they can't keep up with rapidly changing traveler expectations.

Former staffers from the closed Los Angeles office of the Mexico Tourism Board have regrouped to offer marketing services for Mexican destinations. Such services are needed, particularly for regions outside of Mexico's most popular tourist areas.

Boutique brands are discovering that creating splashy grand openings is a way to build buzz while creating community connections. Expect more investment in these one-time celebrations.

The true results of the Mexican government's dismantling of its tourism board likely won't be known for years, but former staffers in the Los Angeles office have formed a new marketing company they hope will fill in the gap. Keep an eye on neighboring tropical destinations, which are looking to swoop in on the opportunity.

Basically, airlines, travel management companies, and global distribution systems need to do a better job at working together if so-called New Distribution Capability is going to live up to its potential.

New distribution technology has a lot of potential to improve booking for business travelers, but first airlines are going to have to make some compromises.

Themed cruises are a fast-growing segment of the cruise industry with broad appeal. Although many are sold directly to consumers, travel advisors should get in on the action.

Travel advisors who understand their clients’ interests and hobbies will likely find a themed cruise that meets their needs. But it may not be plain sailing since some operators seem to prefer to sell direct — and have the marketing reach to do so.

The startup is giving business travelers more choice and flexibility when it comes to long-term rentals.