Travel buyer Bruss, who works for tyre firm Continental, explains his role on the Business Travel Show’s new advisory panel and how next year’s event will be even more buyer-friendly
What does your role as a member of the Business Travel Show's new advisory panel involve?
The main role is to provide feedback from a buyer perspective to the topics addressed during the show, such as presentations, masterclasses etc.
How do you think this work with the advisory panel will improve the experience for buyers visiting next year's show?
Since the advisory panel is buyer only, it can be assured that the issues of concern to corporate buyers are addressed by BTS. Suppliers also benefit from this as they are getting a better insight into what the issues of corporate buyers are and can align their product development more closely with buyer needs.
You will also be on the panel for a session entitled "One multinational travel programme, one TMC?" - what are the main points that you will be making during this session?
The main point is that a company's TMC strategy has to reflect its overall business goals but also its culture and organisation. Depending on these, any TMC setup (one, two or many) can work if properly executed.
You attended the hosted buyer programme last year - what did you get out of that experience during last year's show? What were the highlights and most useful parts of the programme for you?
The biggest highlight - and greatest asset of BTS - is the large number of international buyers and suppliers across all of Europe. This allows for an intense and highly productive networking and a chance to speak to many people in a very short time.
The buyer programme is being extended to three days for 2013 for the first time - what additional benefits will this bring to buyers taking part in the programme?
With the extension to three days, buyers and suppliers should have more opportunities to meet, network, and exchange information.
How many years have you attended the Business Travel Show and how important is it in helping you to do your job better?
2012 was my first year attending BTS, but it definitely is one of the must-go events during the year.
What do you think will be the biggest issues for buyers in 2013?
The biggest challenge will be to react as quickly as possible to changes in the overall
How important is it to meet and talk to suppliers during the show?
Next to networking with other corporate buyers, the exchange with suppliers is a highly valuable part of the show.
businesstravelshow.com