Examining Business Travel Practice in the post-pandemic world

Abstract

This study aims to investigate how COVID-19 has reshaped the landscape of travel and tourism by exploring the changes in business travel practices in the post-pandemic period in London. The data was collected using quantitative techniques specifically online surveys that were distributed online through social media. The questionnaire comprised closed-ended questions derived from the research aim and focused on the impact of COVID-19, business travel practices, trends in travel behaviour post-pandemic, barriers and challenges, and face-to-face meetings. Data was analysed using sophisticated statistical methods including regression, correlation, means, and ANOVA. The findings reveal that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted business travel in London as most meetings changed to virtual and the frequency of business trips is now quite low. Hindrances in the case of business travel in UK post the pandemic are risks to health and travel constraints, considering the enablers there are enhanced safety measures and flexibility in travel practices. Some of the work restructuring practices include remote working and virtual meetings whereby individuals and firms reduce business travels permanently. Organisations have incorporated environmental friendly travel policies as their organizational culture is changed. Based on the conclusions and recommendation, the corporate travel managers in the UK business tourism are advised to realise the need to follow the flexible travel policies that focus on health and safety, provide options to meet in hybrid meetings and include the support of potentials that favours sustainable travel. Destination marketers in London should effectively communicate specific measures to the clients’ health safety, environmental conservation, and local experiences of a destination to appeal availed business opportunities. Keywords: business travellers, COVID-19, post-pandemic, business travel practice, travelling and tourism industry, COVID-19 impact.