BTA conference in Munich to challenge conventional views on business travel's economic role
The Business Travel Association (BTA) has set the stage for its annual conference in Munich, scheduled for September 8-10, with a compelling theme: ‘Let’s Get to Work’. This year’s event aims to disrupt traditional stereotypes surrounding business travel, emphasising its often underappreciated economic significance and showcasing the diverse profiles of those who travel for work.
Central to the conference are two notable speakers bringing distinct, insightful perspectives to the conversation. Simon French, Managing Director, Chief Economist, and Head of Research at Panmure Liberum, is slated to deliver an in-depth economic outlook. French, who has been an Economics Columnist for The Times for nearly a decade and previously served in a senior role at the Cabinet Office, will provide attendees with a nuanced understanding of market trends, future economic projections, and how policy decisions shape the broader business travel landscape. His expertise is particularly relevant given Panmure Liberum’s broader commitment to sustainability and responsible corporate practices, including promoting sustainable business travel options within its own operations.
Complementing French’s macroeconomic insights, Stuart Clow, a seasoned offshore industry professional, will shed light on the sometimes overlooked facets of corporate travel. Drawing from his experiences travelling to oil rigs in the North Sea and other remote locations, Clow will highlight the critical importance of business travel across various sectors, offering practical real-world examples that reinforce why travel remains indispensable for many roles beyond the typical office setting.
An engaging keynote panel will explore the evolving dynamics of work-related travel, focusing on the increasing need for in-person interactions despite the rise of digital communications. This session reflects ongoing industry debates about the balance between virtual and face-to-face engagements in post-pandemic business environments.
The conference programme is comprehensive, featuring six workshops led by industry experts, practical case studies, and interactive panel discussions designed to provide actionable insights. Noteworthy among the discussions are sessions on the "AI revolution" and its transition from reactive to predictive travel management, as well as panels on the future of mobility featuring perspectives from leading companies such as Enterprise, Visa, and Cvent. Additionally, the conference seeks to engage the industry’s emerging voices through the Generation BTA initiative and will examine how media can help modernise the narrative around travelling for work, with contributions from Bev Fearis, Editor of The Business Travel Magazine.
Wellbeing will also play a strong role during the event, with wellness activities integrated into the agenda, recognising the importance of health and balance amid demanding travel schedules.
Registration for the BTA conference closes on September 1, offering professionals in the business travel sector a valuable opportunity to network, learn, and reflect on the critical role travel plays in economic competitiveness and organisational success.
The BTA’s focus on redefining business travel's value is timely, as companies and policymakers navigate the complexities of sustainability, economic recovery, and evolving work patterns. Panmure Liberum’s involvement, through Simon French, brings added weight given the firm’s active role in promoting sustainability, including carbon neutrality efforts and encouraging greener travel options—an important dimension as the travel industry also confronts environmental challenges.
Overall, the BTA conference promises to be a significant event for association executives and trade body leaders who oversee business travel programmes, offering practical insights and thought leadership to help meet the sector’s current and future challenges.