Turbulence Ahead: SAP Concur Survey Highlights Key Divides in Business Travel Landscape for 2025
SAP Concur’s latest annual study, “Turbulence Ahead: Annual Study Reveals Five Topics Dividing Business Travel Stakeholders in 2025,” published on June 30, 2025, sheds light on the evolving complexities and differing perspectives within the business travel ecosystem. The report identifies five critical areas where stakeholders, ranging from travelers and travel managers to finance and procurement teams, find themselves at odds, indicating potential challenges and opportunities for the industry as it navigates the post-pandemic travel environment.
The study, based on comprehensive research and surveys, underscores that while business travel continues its resurgence, the strategies and priorities surrounding it are far from unified. Understanding these divisions is crucial for organizations aiming to optimize their travel programs, ensure employee satisfaction, and manage costs effectively.
One of the most prominent divides identified by the SAP Concur report centers on flexibility versus control. While employees often express a strong desire for greater autonomy and choice in their travel arrangements – seeking preferred airlines, hotels, and booking times – travel managers and finance departments often prioritize adherence to corporate travel policies and preferred supplier agreements to ensure cost containment and compliance. This tension highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing individual traveler needs with organizational objectives.
Another key area of contention revolves around the definition and measurement of “duty of care.” While all stakeholders agree on the importance of traveler safety, there are differing opinions on the extent of the organization’s responsibility and the specific measures required. Travelers may expect comprehensive support in diverse situations, while travel management teams may focus on core safety protocols and risk mitigation strategies within defined budgets. The report suggests a need for clearer communication and aligned expectations regarding duty of care responsibilities.
The study also points to a divergence in perspectives regarding sustainability in business travel. While there is a growing awareness and commitment to environmental responsibility, the practical implementation and prioritization of sustainable travel options present a challenge. Travelers may face limitations or additional costs when opting for greener choices, while organizations grapple with balancing sustainability goals with budgetary constraints and the practicalities of business needs. This division indicates a need for innovative solutions and clearer incentives to promote eco-friendly travel.
Furthermore, the SAP Concur report highlights a divide in technology adoption and integration. While many travelers expect seamless, intuitive digital experiences for booking, expense reporting, and accessing travel information, some organizations may be slow to adopt the latest technologies or face challenges in integrating disparate systems. This can lead to friction and inefficiencies, impacting the overall traveler experience and operational effectiveness.
Finally, the study reveals differing viewpoints on the role and value of business travel itself. In an era where virtual collaboration tools have become sophisticated, some stakeholders may question the necessity of certain trips, while others champion the invaluable benefits of in-person meetings for relationship building, strategic planning, and closing deals. This differing perception impacts budget allocation and the strategic prioritization of travel.
The “Turbulence Ahead” report by SAP Concur serves as a valuable resource for businesses seeking to navigate the complexities of modern business travel. By acknowledging and addressing these key areas of division, organizations can foster a more collaborative approach, develop more effective travel policies, and ultimately create a travel program that is both efficient and supportive of their employees’ needs and their business objectives in the dynamic landscape of 2025.
Turbulence Ahead: Annual Study Reveals Five Topics Dividing Business Travel Stakeholders in 2025
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SAP published ‘Turbulence Ahead: Annual Study Reveals Five Topics Dividing Business Travel Stakeholders in 2025’ at 2025-06-30 11:15. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.