IHG Hotels and Resorts has released findings from a new survey in the UK about the impact of little business travel over the past year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The hotel group revealed that 30 per cent of those surveyed are feeling demotivated by the lack of business travel, and that there is a clear desire to resume travel for work purposes once it is safe to do so.

Almost half of those surveyed (48 per cent) stated that business travel allows them to “create meaningful relationships with colleagues, customers, and/or clients”, with 40 per cent confirming that they missed face-to-face meetings.

More than a third of respondents (38 per cent) stated that business travel improves their overall mood and makes them more motivated, while a quarter said that it helps them work smarter.

The survey also found that people are missing the travel elements of a work trip. Just under half of respondents (46 per cent) missed being able to stay in a different city, with 21 per cent noting the inability to earn loyalty points. Meanwhile, 34 per cent missed staying in a comfortable bed when they travelled for business, 20 per cent missed room service, and 30 per cent missed dining with clients and colleagues. Additionally, 38 per cent missed having some time and space to themselves.

Karin Sheppard, SVP, Managing Director for Europe at IHG Hotels and Resorts, commented on the findings:

“With so many looking forward to rebooking missed experiences, whether it’s travelling to spend time with family, a trip away with friends, or travelling for work – it’s evident that there’s a hunger for human connection again. We know travel may still look a little different this year, but we are committed to continue innovating and finding new ways to help people connect and experience our own backyard and beyond. So, when the world is ready to travel again, they can feel confident doing so with us.”

The hotel group recently unveiled a brand refresh, adding “Hotels and Resorts” to highlight “the company’s collection of 16 brands that sit side by side as one family”.

ihg.com