US firms squander $7.3 billion on Wi-Fi, roaming charges
It costs US companies $7.3 billion to keep business travelers connected on the road according to research commissioned by Amba Hotels.
The survey says the average US business traveler will spend $15.10 on Wi-Fi and roaming charges during each business trip.
The report also highlights the difficulties for many travelers to remain productive throughout the working day away from the office.
It found 39% have been unable to log on to a videoconferencing meeting, 14% have failed to meet an important work deadline and 55% said an unreliable Wi-Fi connection had prevented them from staying in contact with friends and family.
"Wi-Fi is consistently one of the key criteria that influences our guests’ choice of hotel – in fact for some people, it’s more important than a good night’s sleep," said Mike DeNoma, CEO of glh, the parent company of Amba Hotels.
Hotels and airports were among the most expensive providers of Wi-Fi access with travelers paying up to $26 for 24 hours.
However US travelers spend less on Wi-Fi and roaming charges than their UK counterparts, who paid out £16.30 ($25.00) per business trip.
The survey was conducted by Gabriel Research & Management Ltd and polled business travelers in the UK, USA, France, and Germany in January 2015.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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