COVER STORY: FANCOURT

How can you meet the needs of the Gen C business traveller?

Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic hit last year, the world of business and business events travel has had to adapt to new demands and challenges imposed by a global workforce in transition.

While no one knows exactly what the next six months will bring, key trends have begun to emerge, as has a ‘new’ type of traveller.

Who is the ‘new’ Gen C traveller?

In June 2020, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund C. Bartlett, was speaking about the future of tourism and the type of traveller they had prepared to welcome after Jamaica became one of the first countries to reopen to international visitors. He used the term ‘Generation C traveller’ to describe the type of traveller, transcending generational age gaps, that will be travelling in a post-Covid world.

“As we begin leaving our homes and travelling once again, and until there is medical treatment and a vaccine, we have to find ways to live with Covid-19 in the world. This has created a common global experience that is intergenerational. The post-Covid generation is Generation C. Boomers, GenX, Millennials, and Gen Z are all part of Gen-C, defined by a societal shift in mindset that will change the way in which we look at – and do – many things as a result of the ravages of Covid-19,” Mr Bartlett said.

These Gen C travellers are looking for assurance and safety. Top of mind? Gen C travellers are looking for reassurance, flexibility and peace of mind when making any travel plans.

Those working in travel, tourism, hospitality and business events who are able to adapt to these challenging – and changeable – times and meet the needs of Gen C travellers will be well positioned for recovery.

Here’s how you can meet the needs of the Gen C business events traveller:

Your health and safety protocols are number one

From sanitising your hands before entering the premises to filling in a wellness questionnaire to declare any symptoms that you may be experiencing, these Covidrelated protocols are here to stay.

Nowadays, when you arrive at your accommodation, you will still be greeted with warm, welcoming hospitality and plenty of big smiles – all under a mask! Yes, the mask will remain as a travel essential (an everyday essential, in fact) as the world continues to battle against the coronavirus and its subsequent strains.

Establishments and tourism organisations will do all they can to drive the message home – adhere to good personal and community hygiene practices, wear masks and sanitise consistently and correctly.

The term ‘super-spreader’ event will cast fear into the heart of any event planner or venue.

Smaller gatherings are here to stay, and businesses, conferences, meetings and events will be tailored to cater to a smaller crowd.

According to adjusted Level 3 guidelines announced on 1 February, conferencing, dining and entertainment facilities are currently limited to fifty persons or less for an indoor gathering, and 100 persons or less in case of an outdoor gathering – provided that no more than fifty per cent of the capacity of the venue is used, and with strict social distancing measures in place. This is why so many businesses and employees are selecting business events venues and accommodation that allow for outdoor meetings, and why ample space, fresh air and natural surroundings are more in demand than ever before.

For Peter Dros, sales and marketing director of Fancourt, this is critical: “The days of spending eight hours indoors at a conference or event are over. Organisers are actively looking for venues which offer an indoor/outdoor flow, flexible configurations which can deliver social distancing with ease and spacious grounds for al fresco events.”

Sell the experience, not the destination

Business travel is no longer about simply sitting around the conference table together. It’s about reconnecting with colleagues and clients you may have only seen on Zoom for the past year. It’s about soaking up nature and the chance to be outside and enjoy the multiple health and wellness benefits of a change of scenery.

The Gen C traveller is looking for meaningful experiences, and the chance to learn, be inspired or simply relax. Inbetween networking and making important business decisions, they want to explore, experience something new and enjoy local life.

Highlight sustainable travel

The next most crucial thing for Generation C is putting the environment first. They want to stay at eco-friendly establishments, do their part by contributing to sustainable tourism, for example, by spending an hour or two volunteering for a good cause. In short, they want to support local and give back. Never before have we been more acutely aware of the fragility of our existence, and that of our planet.

Make your tech top notch – user experience is key

Whether you’re a millennial or Generation Z having grown up with smartphones or a Boomer now savvy with Zoom and webinars, technology is key. Ensuring that your business is visible and utilises technology smartly, to make the customer experience easier and smoother, is essential for every business. Consider contactless check-ins, virtual tours and more.

Cater for bleisure travel

Although a return to normal leisure travel still seems a long way off, travel experts, travel managers and business events organisers understand the importance of combining business with leisure. A few days off at the beginning or end of a trip is likely to make a world of difference to a traveller’s health, mental wellbeing and morale. ‘Bleisure’ trips have seen a steady rise in popularity over the last few years, and in 2021 they will be more precious than ever. Travellers want to make the most of their time they spend travelling – whether it’s for business or leisure.

“Travellers are now looking to make their business trips count,” Mr Dros agreed. “Whether it’s as a result of a pent-up demand for travel or wanting to extend one’s stay to balance out the stress and admin surrounding new travel regulations, guests are looking to stay longer – and enjoy everything their destination has to offer.”

When booking a conference or event, consider the venue’s leisure options too. The idea of health and wellbeing is now front and centre, and an extra ‘down’ day is very appealing to those who want to relax – or are ready to get out and explore.

“We are extremely lucky at Fancourt,” Mr Dros said, “As we are able to offer everything from a round of golf to a spa day, nature trails and bike paths, beach braais, wine tastings and more. In terms of ‘bleisure’, Fancourt ticks all the boxes.”

The changes brought about as a result of Covid, paired with today’s evolving workforce, means that business events travel is undergoing a complete makeover, and business events’ experts, businesses and corporate travel suppliers need to adapt accordingly. There is no doubt that business travel and business events will return post Covid-19, they may just look a little different.

Why Fancourt for business events?

• Fancourt is nestled in the shadow of the spectacular Outeniqua mountains. Surrounded by 613 hectares of lush countryside, it makes for stunning views and plenty of opportunity for outdoor pursuits. It’s not called the business playground of South Africa for nothing!

• Enjoy full connectivity, seamless service and a relaxed atmosphere – all the ingredients for a successful work retreat. Ask about Fancourt’s Kingfisher Business Lounge – a private space for smaller teams offering a private boardroom, lounge and patio. The venue flows seamlessly between all three, giving delegates a generous, relaxed indoor/outdoor setting, as well as a dedicated hostess.

• Following a meeting or conference, guests can explore the estate, venture off on a nature trail, exercise or relax in the swimming pool or spa.

• Chat to the friendly Fancourt team to organise an afternoon of wine tasting at one of the local vineyards. Other off-site experiences to consider include a Big 5 game drive, an unforgettable beach braai, boat cruises along the Knysna Lagoon, and, of course, a challenging round of golf at one of South Africa’s top golf courses, including The Links, Montagu, and Outeniqua.

• Fancourt places a huge emphasis on going above and beyond to ensure the safety of all guests, providing access to stunning and spacious conference venues ideal for practicing strict social distancing.

Tick all of the boxes relating to heightened traveller expectations by choosing Fancourt for business events in 2021 and beyond.

Contact us:

groupreservations@fancourt.co.za