Friday, July 26, 2024
Reading Time: 2 minute
From July 22-24, 2024, Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center was the focal point for the global business travel community during the GBTA Convention 2024. This premier gathering drew 5,400 participants from 50 countries, including 1,100 travel buyers from more than 600 companies. 310 Exhibitors. The event showcased more than 200 speakers and 86 educational sessions, reviewed by peers, providing unparalleled networking and insight into the future of business travel.
The main theme of the convention was Crucial to Today’s Industry Challenges, focusing on industry insights, human psychology, innovation, sustainability and the future path of business travel.
“The GBTA convention offers a unique, annual opportunity for industry professionals to learn, network and experience the best that the global business travel community has to offer – and this year was no exception. This week, in general, was also a testament to the ongoing importance of managed travel programs and their support systems, as we saw the industry’s resilience to navigate global IT system disruption to come together in Atlanta,” said Suzanne Newfang, CEO of GBTA.
Exploring human connections, technological advancements and sustainability at the main stage
The conference featured three keynote speakers who brought unique perspectives and encouraged progressive thinking. They include:
- Dan Ariely, behavioral economist and author, who shares fascinating stories and research on human decision-making processes.
- Carla Harris, renowned speaker and senior client advisor at Morgan Stanley, who provided inspiring examples on leadership and trust.
- Dr. Bertrand Picard, who described his pioneering solar-powered flights and his 1999 balloon circumnavigation, particularly emphasized the role of the “impossible” in driving innovation in sustainable aviation.
Additional key stage discussions included influential figures from organizations such as Delta Air Lines, Enterprise Mobility, Gooder, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott, Shell, United for Business and Visa Inc.
Industry projections: Stabilization and historical growth in business travel spending
A key announcement was the 2024 GBTA Business Travel Index Outlook, which predicted that business travel spending could hit a record $1.48 trillion by the end of the year. By 2028, it is expected to surpass $2 trillion, driven by economic stability and a revival in demand.
Key insights from the report are highlighted:
- A 64% increase in spending from 2023.
- Average spend per trip per traveler is $834.
- 81% of travelers believe in the value of business travel to achieve business goals.
- A growing trend of mixing business with leisure travel.
The GBTA also paid tribute to its extraordinary volunteers and leaders, who have made significant contributions to its mission and the broader industry. The recognition was given during the Global Leaders Reception at the Georgia Aquarium.
News announcements and executive insights
The convention kicked off with the GBTA Media Day, where 15 companies presented significant industry news. The GBTA Broadcast Studio conducted 45 executive interviews, highlighting the innovations and strategies shaping the future of business travel.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming GBTA conventions and regional events
As the 2024 convention ended, the GBTA announced future locations: Denver in 2025 and Chicago in 2026. Other notable upcoming events include the GBTA + VDR Conference in Copenhagen and the GBTA Canada Conference in Toronto, with GBTA at the forefront of advancement. Global business travel.