The council members include travel managers and buyers in industries from financial services and manufacturing to transport, engineering, energy, technology and professional services.
Collectively, the corporate council members represent the travel prospects of 2.7 million corporate travellers.
The Accor Global Leadership Council facilitates a direct connection between corporate travel and meetings decision-makers and Accor’s executive leaders to discuss core issues for this travel segment.
The group has already met and discussed hot topics including the changing expectations of corporate travellers, the importance of recognition, personalisation and B2B loyalty, sustainability, traveller trends and the role and impact of distribution and pricing.
The council also delved into some aspects of Accor’s business and brands.
Three areas emerged as the top priorities for corporate travel from the initial discussion – travel experience and well-being, cost management and optimisation and sustainability.
Breaking down those areas, traveller experience and well-being covers traveller security, digital efficiencies, wellness and corporate employee engagement.
Cost management includes pricing, cost reduction and cost avoidance as well as program compliance, while sustainability covers carbon budgets, diversity, equity and inclusion and sustainable action.
“Travel and tourism is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by an increased focus on flexibility, sustainability, cost and personalisation,” said Antony Meguerdijian, Accor’s senior vice president of sales for the Middle East, Africa and the Asia Pacific.
“The dynamics of international and corporate travel in the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific region are evolving rapidly.
“It is essential for both our clients and hospitality businesses to adapt to new demands and priorities.
“The new GLC, and the program of client and commercial partner events we host across the region, are critical forums for sharing insights and collaborating on solutions that meet the changing needs of travellers and delegates.
“At Accor, we are committed to not only meeting these needs but also anticipating them, ensuring that every journey is as enriching and impactful as the destination and travel intent itself,” he said.
