What SME travel taught us in 2025
As the year draws to a close, we reflect back on the key lessons learned when it comes to the state of business travel in the UK, based on data from our SME Travel Survey.
In the world of corporate travel, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are often the top priorities. Spreadsheets, booking platforms, and automated systems dominate the landscape, promising streamlined processes. But what happens when things don't go to plan? A cancelled flight, a last-minute itinerary change, or a global disruption can turn a simple business trip into a logistical nightmare. This is where the true value of a travel partner emerges - not just in the booking, but in the care shown when it matters most.
At Travel Counsellors for Business, we believe that the most important element of corporate travel management isn't a platform or an algorithm; it's a person. Our entire approach is built on a foundation of care, trust, and a commitment to always doing right by our clients. This isn't just a slogan; it's the principle that guides every decision we make and every journey we plan.
Standard corporate travel often feels transactional. You input dates, select flights, and receive a confirmation email. It’s a system that works, until it doesn’t. Our model is different. We focus on building lasting relationships with our clients, getting to know their business, their travellers, and their unique needs.
This deep understanding allows us to be proactive, not just reactive. We learn your preferences, from your preferred airline and seat choice to your typical budget for accommodation. This means we can craft travel solutions that are not only efficient but also perfectly tailored to the individual. It's about transforming travel from a necessary task into a seamless and positive experience.
This relationship is founded on integrity. Our clients trust us to manage their travel with their best interests at heart, and we take that responsibility seriously. It means providing honest advice, transparent pricing, and always searching for the best possible value without compromising on quality or safety.
Adopting a high-touch, personal approach to corporate travel delivers tangible benefits that go far beyond a simple booking confirmation. It provides security, enhances employee wellbeing, and ultimately supports your business goals.
No two businesses are the same, and neither are their travel needs. A generic, one-size-fits-all approach rarely delivers the best results. Your dedicated Travel Counsellor takes the time to understand the specific objectives of each trip. Are your team members travelling for a crucial client meeting, an industry conference, or a multi-city sales tour?
Knowing this context allows us to build itineraries that are practical and supportive. We can schedule flights that allow for proper rest before a big presentation, book hotels with reliable Wi-Fi and meeting facilities, and even arrange restaurant reservations so your travellers aren’t worrying about where they’ll be eating. This level of personalisation means your team arrives prepared, refreshed, and ready to do their best work.
At the heart of everything we do is our dedication to delivering customer value in every journey we manage. For us, it's not just about getting you from A to B, it's about ensuring that every detail of your travel experience adds genuine worth to your business.
We work closely with you to understand your goals and measure success not just by cost savings or seamless logistics, but by how well we support your people and your business objectives.
Our commitment is to keep customer satisfaction at the forefront, drawing on our expertise and industry partnerships to deliver solutions that make a tangible difference. This personal investment in your success is what sets us apart and ensures that you always receive the best possible value.
For us, going beyond isn't an occasional act; it’s our standard way of operating. It’s about the small details that make a big difference. It could be securing an early check-in after a long-haul flight, arranging a quiet room for a nervous traveller, or remembering a dietary requirement without being asked.
This commitment is driven by a genuine passion for what we do. We are invested in the success of your trips and the wellbeing of your people. We take pride in finding creative solutions and delivering a level of service that automated platforms simply cannot replicate. We’re not just a service provider; we are an extension of your team, dedicated to ensuring every trip is a success.
The landscape of business travel is constantly evolving. With our expertise and personal commitment, you have a partner who is always looking ahead, anticipating challenges, and keeping your people safe. Our care-led model means you get more than just a faceless transaction; you get a trusted advisor dedicated to your business.
Discover the difference that genuine care can make to your corporate travel programme. Contact Travel Counsellors for Business today to learn how our personalised approach can support your team and your goals.
As the year draws to a close, we reflect back on the key lessons learned when it comes to the state of business travel in the UK, based on data from our SME Travel Survey.
This month, we’re shining a spotlight on Vicky Higgs, one of our Business Development Managers, whose two decades in the travel industry have a direct impact on the way we help businesses transform their travel programmes.
Even in a digital world, SMEs say face-to-face still matters. Our SME Travel Survey highlights why, and shows that not all business trips deliver value in the same way.