More than 95% of senior business leaders expect business travel to remain steady or increase over the next 12 months, according to the latest Amex Trendex: Business Travel Edition survey released by American Express.
The survey, which polled 1,000 U.S. business travelers and 500 business travel decision-makers at companies with 50 or more employees, found that growth opportunities are the primary driver behind continued business travel demand. Maintaining or increasing client face time ranked as the top reason for business travel growth, cited by 64% of respondents, followed by new or expanded business opportunities at 59%.
"Business travel remains a proven growth driver," said Fernando Iraola, executive vice president and general manager, global and U.S. large enterprises, American Express. "More than ever, companies must effectively manage costs and compliance while also meeting employee expectations for a smooth travel experience."
The commitment to business travel persists despite external economic pressures, with 92% of senior business leaders and 88% of travelers indicating that in-person meetings remain worthwhile in the current business environment.
Companies are tracking measurable returns on their travel investments, with 93% reporting they can attribute business growth to in-person meetings and events. Additionally, 87% of travelers say client relationships benefit more from face-to-face interactions than virtual meetings. To measure return on investment, companies primarily track sales outcomes (66%) and client feedback (60%) resulting from business travel.
However, cost management remains a priority, with 90% of companies agreeing that greater control over travel spending has become increasingly important. Sixty percent expect their focus on budget optimization to intensify over the next 12 months.
American Express identified eight trending business travel destinations based on year-over-year growth in commercial customer transactions. The international destinations include Kumamoto, Japan; Cork, Ireland; and Malmo, Sweden. Domestic U.S. destinations showing growth are Richmond, Virginia; Columbus, Ohio; Charleston, South Carolina; Boise, Idaho; and New Orleans, Louisiana.
The survey revealed notable differences between age groups regarding business travel experiences. Companies increasingly use travel as a talent retention tool, with 80% reporting it helps attract and retain employees. This strategy appears effective, as 84% of travelers consider business travel a perk.
Younger generations show greater enthusiasm for business travel, with 88% of Gen-Z and Millennials viewing it as a perk compared to 78% of Gen-X and Boomers. Gen-Z and Millennials also report higher satisfaction rates, with 80% rating their business travel experience four or five stars versus 64% of older generations.
‘Bleisure’ — combining business and leisure travel — is also emerging as a powerful retention and engagement tool. According to the survey, 86% of employees say they feel more excited about attending meetings that allow for leisure time, and 85% are more likely to advocate for in-person meetings that involve travel. As a result, many companies are leaning into this trend as part of their broader talent strategy.
Despite their positive outlook, younger travelers face greater challenges with productivity (46% vs. 33% for older generations) and wellness (50% vs. 40%) when traveling for work.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by American Express. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
