The entire travel industry is celebrating the recent announcement that travel restrictions will be eased for the first time since COVID-19 began. Many European countries have already removed testing, quarantine, and mask requirements, and several more Asian countries will be doing the same over the coming weeks. Most hope this will boost revenue and tourism as well as help things return to business as normal. However, previous policies and service standards may not be enough to stay competitive. Although the number of travelers has nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels, COVID-19 has completely changed how people operate. Companies are reviewing long-standing policies since they must now cater to a new kind of traveler.
Concerns for Health and Safety
For obvious reasons, there has been an elevated concern for everyone’s health and safety. Therefore, sanitation measures were the first thing to change. Every airline, hotel, and service provider heightened their cleaning standards and attention to hygiene.
However, the increasing number of cases and enforcement of travel restrictions also led to more last-minute cancellations and changes. While these measures were in place to protect both employees and guests, people needed flexibility. Even as restrictions are removed, you can be certain this will continue to be a top priority for travelers.
Access to the Latest Technology
Another significant change over the last two years has been an even greater dependency on technology. More people are choosing to work remotely or earn their living as digital nomads. Technology is a crucial component for these travelers, and they will need access to the latest tech to conduct business and manage reservations.
However, upgrading technology and communication systems will also open new opportunities. With fewer in-person events, companies that have more remote capabilities can better cater to this new kind of traveler. Even when these events resume, having more advanced technologies offers a competitive advantage to companies that have already adapted to the changing business climate.
Focus on Convenience
After watching travel trends, we have learned that people are combining business and leisure travel. So, they are more likely to choose hotels and service providers who cater to their personal needs and make doing business simple.
In addition to stellar locations and comfortable accommodations, people need convenience. Access to on-site facilities such as business centers, fitness centers, laundry, and dining make traveling easier. And, amenities such as breakfast, transportation, and discounts in the area add greater value for these guests. Furthermore, they demand fast and simple customer support. If your company isn’t rising to meet their expectations, you can be certain they will choose someone else who does.
Raising the Industry Standard
The lines between business and leisure travel have been blurred, and the entire industry is about to see a huge influx in the number of travelers. Therefore, the industry is rethinking its business models and giving people more choices. What once worked to maintain the status quo no longer applies. Businesses must not only understand their guests’ needs but what motivates their behaviors if companies hope to meet the changing expectations.
For those companies that are still navigating their way through these changes, contacting the experts at P3 can ensure your business will be prepared for the upcoming travel season. Our team of experts provides hands-on support through digital transformation, staff augmentation to meet rising demands, leadership development, and in-depth analysis to make sure you are getting the most from your communication systems. Rather than scrambling to stay relative in an ever-changing market, you can trust the consultants at P3 to have your business ready to face these new challenges.