Growth Slowing, But Still Reason for Biz Travel Optimism

While business travel growth is expected to slow significantly next year to less than 1%, there is still plenty to be optimistic about, according to David Huether, senior vice president of research and economics for the U.S. Travel Association.

 “2013 will see the third consecutive annual increase in business trips – and that hasn’t happened in a long time,” Huether said during a recent press conference detailing U.S. Travel’s forecast on overall travel growth.

The number of business trips has grown steadily since the downturn in 2009 and is expected to see stronger growth in 2014, he said, noting that even next year’s modest growth outlook is a good sign.

“Businesses continue to have a heightened focus on the value and bottom-line benefits of travel. We feel the slight increase in business travel next year continues to reflect demand for face-to-face meetings that drive growth and productivity.”