Business travel chief hails new way forward
The business travel industry has reached a turning point following a year of crisis, according to the President and CEO of Carlson Wagonlit Travel, world-wide, Herve Gourio, speaking in London yesterday.
Mr Gourio (pictured with Jim Tweedie, Executive Vice President North Europe – Carlson Wagonlit Travel, left) said: “2001 was a year like no other in the history of business travel. All key players – corporations, travel suppliers, technology companies and business travel management companies – have been shaken from the end of 2000 and increasingly throughout 2001. The tragic events of September 11 can now be seen as a watershed.
“As a result of all the change and upheaval in the marketplace, a new business model is emerging for travel purchasing. The combination of newly defined relationships between those involved in travel, and increased expectations from clients, is leading to a new way of doing business. It is one based on innovation, a win-win approach and the integration of technology at all critical stages within the travel process.”
Gourio underlined the double shift of corporations moving from simply buying travel towards a “true procurement approach”, while Travel Management Companies go from handling travel towards e.bookings and consultancy.
Despite a difficult year, marked by economic slowdown, cost-cutting world-wide and September 11, Carlson Wagonlit Travel reported a sales volume of $11 billion (USD) for 2001.
Commenting on the results, Mr Gourio said: “We were able to withstand the negative impact of a turbulent year due mainly to our ability to adapt our organisation at levels of activity. Other positive factors include productivity gains, strong support from our shareholders, Accor and CCI, and a true global operation.”
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