The blog post for Trend #6 was about security at events and the new challenges that event managers*have to consider at the moment.
Trend #7 is all about the much-used term “work-life balance“ and family-time.
You can download the full report with all 10 trends HERE.
How business travel is being redefined
Imagine the following: A businessman packs his suitcase, checks his documents and prepares for the next flight. But this time it’s different. Instead of settling for lonely hotel rooms and endless meetings, he adds children’s toys and an extra passport to his suitcase. His family accompanies him on this journey – a business trip that turns into an unforgettable family adventure.
The trend towards combining business trips with family vacations has increased significantly in recent years. According to the latest Business Travel Report, 65% of business travelers in Europe and North America reported taking their families with them on at least one of their last five trips. This development reflects a shift in working life in which the boundaries between work and private life are becoming increasingly blurred.
There are many reasons for this trend. On the one hand, flexible working models and the increase in remote working allow business travelers to take their families with them without major interruptions to their workflow. On the other hand, the growing emphasis on the work-life balance concept has contributed to employers being more open to such arrangements.
For organizers of business events, this means adapting their offerings. Conferences and meetings are increasingly being organized in family-friendly destinations with child-friendly activities and childcare facilities. Hotels and airlines are also recognizing the potential of this trend and are offering special packages for families travelling on business.
What could that mean for you?
- Event planning: If you are organizing a conference or business meeting, consider planning it in a city with family-friendly attractions. Provide information about local activities and childcare services.
Company policy
Companies could introduce travel policies that make it easier to take family members on business trips, e.g. through flexible travel dates or assistance with accommodation.
Personalizing the travel experience
Business travelers can customize their travel plans to include extra days for family activities, whether it’s a visit to an amusement park or a cultural sightseeing tour.
Conclusion:
Combining work and leisure is more than just a trend – it is a way of life that is increasingly being adopted by the modern workforce. The travel industry and companies must adapt to this change in order to meet the needs of today’s business travelers. By turning business trips into an opportunity for family bonding and new experiences, they create added value that goes beyond business.
You can download here which other important trends you should not lose sight of in the event & brand experience industry in 2024.