Research Finds COVID-19 Vaccine Key To Restoration of Enterprise Journey
Business travel is on track to return to 70 percent of pre-COVID-19 levels by the end of 2021. Nearly two in five business travelers around the world say getting the coronavirus vaccine is a priority before returning to travel.
The study of more than 15,000 travelers from around the world found that the majority of business travelers (63 percent) would like to travel within the next six months or by October 1st. 26 percent of business travelers will see themselves back in the office by May 1st. Only six percent believe they will be traveling in the next month.
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The UK and France are the two countries that are most likely to resume business travel. Almost a quarter of respondents in the UK (24 percent) said they would like to travel within a month, while 17 percent of business travelers in France plan to leave by May 1.
The continued rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine is a major reason for the return of travelers’ confidence. According to the Business Traveler Sentiment Survey, 39 percent of business travelers believe getting vaccinations before travel is a priority. 19 percent opt for screenings from travel providers and temperature tests.
The vast majority of business travelers are convinced of the hotels’ improved health and safety protocols. Research by GoldSpring Consulting shows that nearly nine out of ten business travelers (89 percent) choose traditional hotel stays over shared apartments. Many business travelers are re-evaluating transportation. However, 74 percent say they are now considering driving versus flying or taking the train for certain trips.
When it comes to attending their first large meeting with more than 25 people, most business travelers (44 percent) believe the time span between July 1st and October 1st is between 90 days and six months.
“While results are optimistic that business travel will be seeing a significant return by the end of the year, businesses will need to check-in with travelers on a regular basis,” GoldSpring Consulting partner Will Tate said in a statement. “Companies can now take the survey.” and also re-use over time to measure the change in sentiment as travel intensifies in the coming months. “
