Around three quarters of frequent business travellers fly economy and 73 per cent choose not to stay in 4 or 5 star hotels, a new study has found.
The research from airport lounge access provider Priority Pass showed there is “changing expectations” among business travellers with many choosing to enhance their trips with extra benefits at the expense of luxury accommodation or first class flights.
The study of 958 travellers showed the benefits their choosing include access to airport lounges, concierge services and upgrades.
Priority Pass said the research highlights a number of opportunities for business travel providers and for internal corporate travel teams – frequent travellers are more likely to stay loyal to their preferred airline than general travellers but show less loyalty to hotel groups, “suggesting that hoteliers who offer enhancements such as access to arts and cultural events can retain these customers”.
Priority Pass general manager Errol McGlothan, said: “Business travellers have revealed a strong desire for experiences to enhance their travel experience, such as access to airport lounges, concierge services, and upgrades.
“They are also keen to extend the benefits from their business trips to improve the experience of travel with their families, for example using points to ensure they can book plane seats together for their families when on holiday.”