We’ve heard consistently from our members about the devastating impact pandemic-related decreases in business travel, meetings and events have had on hotels. There have been two important recent developments on that front:
First: A new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of AHLA finds that sentiment around business travel is shifting, with 77% of business travelers and 64% of workers agreeing that it’s more important than ever to bring back business travel. Read more here.
Second: An analysis conducted by San Diego State University on behalf AHLA found that in-person business travel and meetings have undeniable advantages over virtual options, and that businesses and organizations that resume business travel and meetings more quickly are likely to have a competitive edge over those that do not. Read more here.
There is no substitute for the real thing, and after the last two years of virtual work arrangements and travel restrictions, it’s time for businesses, employees and customers alike to take advantage of the unmatched value business travel and face-to-face meetings provide.
Business travel is the hotel industry’s largest source of revenue, and until it returns to pre-pandemic levels, AHLA will continue to tout its enormous value to business leaders, media and other stakeholders across the country.