MICE Spring edition

Built in 1936 in the style of 'Het Nieuwe Bouwen' and with sustainability in mind, the light and green elements in this building add character to any business event.

In the center of Hollands own Hollywood, Hilversum, you'll find a unique, characteristic venue for your next business event:

Gooiland Events & Hotel

Gooiland specializes in organizing business events We offer multifunctional spaces, including an exhibition floor and a spacious authentic theater, where the original red Gispen chairs still steal the spotlights

Hilversum Central Station and over 1 400 parking spots can be found within walking distance, which makes Gooiland the ideal location for your next (multi-day) event

Interested in a tour of the venue? Our enthusiastic team would love to show you around and show you the possibilities for your next event

Modern, characteristic monument; For business events from 100 up to 1 500 guests; Ideal for (multi-day) conferences, trade fairs and and business events; Beautiful atmospheric spaces; Different sub f i d break-out se

Healthy living is very 2023!

How about combining a team building outing with some physical activity and friendly competition? Our editor Rahanna van Stapele sums up some excellent exercise for your business. A healthy mind in a healthy body!

COLOPHON

Editor-in-chief

Tijn Kramer tijn.kramer@travmedia.nl

Editors Belgium & The Netherlands: Arjen Lutgendorff, Sharon Evers, Dylan Cinjee, Bart Matthijs, Jan Peeters, Theo de Reus, Rahanna van Stapele, Mariska Kesteloo (columnist).

Latests news on incentive trends

Every issue we welcome trade organizations to the stage to share interesting news. Offering people in the know a relevant platform, must-reads for our readers. Please read the latests news on incentive trends, the revival of business tourism and the news on the ICCA gathering in Bangkok.

Press relases and info: info@micebenelux.com

TRAVelMEDIA

MICE Benelux. Arendstraat 33A, 1223 RE, Hilversum. www.micebenelux.com

Design: Iris Beenen

Publishers: Tom van Apeldoorn T.J. van Apeldoorn

Fun in France

There are few things more bonding than visiting a high fever sports match together. If you agree, get ready for fun coming to France this fall. A joyful storm of loud cheers, kindred spirits, true sportsmanship, a never give up attitude during the match, loving fans from all over the world joining in drinks together.

Sales & Marketing: Sales and information about advertising, etc. danielle@travmedia.nl (0031-35-6728855), dennis.ebbers@travmedia.nl (0031-35-6728852),

MICE BENELUX is a TRAVelMEDIA publication.

SUBSCRIPTION:: 29 euro per year

Year 18, issue 1

Tijn Kramer, Editor-in-Chief MICE Benelux

Meet us at TravDay

MICE is doing better than ever. Well not ever, but the market is picking up again reaching for old times and numbers. And of course the market has changed with a world demanding a greener and healthier experience. And rightfully so. But if we have learned one thing, meeting is better live, in person. Can I get a ‘hell yeah’?

So please join us at our own travel event, TravDay, on the 3rd of April. It is the logical successor of our previous editions called BTMF and before that MICE Event. We have been doing it for some 18 years, and now we are rebranding it to a one stop shop for the travel trade, where peers can meet and also make new connections. Be it large (IMEX, IBTM etc) or small gatherings like the many small trade presentations in wonderful venues all over our countries, or a trade gathering with 500 plus people like ‘our’ TravDay.

I do not need to convince you of the importance of live meetings. But as I said, MICE is doing very well and agendas are full, so I do ask you to consider to take some time to join us for a wonderful afternoon. Many exhibitors, friends and new connections are waiting for you. See you soon!

Tijn Kramer

travday

Sign up!

The trade event for the travel, business and leisure sector

TravDay is now a well-known name. This travel event for travel professionals (business and leisure) attracts, as shown by the past editions, visitors from leisure, MICE and the Business Travel field. Both visitors and exhibitors form a cross-section of the

Dutch travel landscape when it comes to business travel, incentives and holidays. From airlines that transport both business and leisure, to home based agents (zra) who occasionally also do group bookings. A unique cross-over! TravDay is ‘the place to be’ for

the travel industry. Meet colleagues and suppliers. Update each other about the latest developments and do business in an informal setting. Get substantive information on the dynamic exhibition floor or during one of the many interesting

DATE: 3 APRIL

14:00 - 21:00 uur

NETWORKING ALL DAY

Re-connect live with colleagues, suppliers representatives and other industry peers.

ALL-INCLUSIVE

Snacks, drinks and a walking dinner.

BE THERE!

TravDay is ‘the place to be’ voor de reisbranche.

presentations. The day will naturally end with a valuable and convivial networking reception.

Ontmoet collega’s en leveranciers. Praat elkaar bij over de laatste ontwikkelingen en doe business in een informele setting.

We would be delighted to welcome you.

Laat je inhoudelijk informeren op de dynamische beurvloer of tijdens een van de vele interessante

Sign up via www.travday.nl or scan the QR-code

presentaties. De dag wordt vanzelfsprekend afgesloten met een waardevolle en gezellige netwerkborrel.

Mariska Kesteloo, columnist

A très bientôt

It feels like it is almost the end of the year! Already, yes, that’s my feeling. The month of January felt like it took ages. It was a relief that February took off. And now it’s March. The first quarter of the year is already gone. Incredible.

If you look at the world news, the earthquake, economic developments, uncertainties, last-minute bookings, wow, we as an industry are facing so many challenges but mostly uncertainties. It was not for nothing that I felt almost depressed at the start of a new year. What a tough start. Despite these uncertain times, we as a sector still remain positive, that we keep putting forward the power of personal encounters and meetings. Next many new connections, beautiful collaborations and projects are also emerging. That’s the vibe I feel and see around me. Proud to work in such a dynamic and resilient industry (and people!).

Meanwhile, I am preparing my campervan for departure, ready for journey number three. Destination La Douce France, Provence and Côte d’Azur. Not bad, he! Already looking forward to discovering this well-known region because for me, this is actually a little unknown territory. And coincidentally, this is the only region I have visited with Christophe as a tourist. Just a funny anecdote, we were having lunch in Provence, eating the famous bouillabaisse where he spilled some sauce on my snow white brand new top. He was so annoyed. And Nice, yes. I won 2 nights in the Radisson Blu on the boulevard with a room facing the sea. Looking forward to making new memories as a tourist and exploring the MICE opportunities.

Fantastic that we are rediscovering our surrounding countries in post corona times. Sometimes it feels double, I would love to explore other continents but with my campervan that is quite a challenge. But somehow I am ‘at peace’ with exploring the surrounding countries. Cannes, Mandelieu and Nice are beautiful and have incredible potential. Enough to discover and explore and certainly food for crazy adventures!

Yes, of course my super companion Loekie, my cat is going with me again. And I’m even going to organise my grieving walks in Cannes and with ‘grief holidays’ in the pipeline (yes, in Turkey). Despite the many challenges everyone has, including me, there are plenty of things to be grateful for. I am going to enjoy my trip and explore the MICE opportunities in Cote d’Azur.

Carpe diem

A très bientôt, Mariska

TUI goes for golf

This year, TUI Golfreizen is the name of the ‘LinkedGolf Laddercompetitie’. “We have many great plans for 2023 to bring TUI Golf Reizen to the attention,” said Reinier Boss (Product Manager TUI Sports).

Unleash the power of well-designed face-to-face meetings

During the first half of 2023, MindMeeting & Partners will hold a series of small-scale book launches, to celebrate the publication of “Meetings, by Default or by Design.” These book launches will examine the new role of face-to-face meetings in the light of the post-pandemic balance of meeting delivery channels.

Almost ten years after the publication of their first book “Into the Heart of Meetings”, Mike van der Vijver and Eric de Groot are back with a new title on Meeting Design: “Meetings, by Default or by Design”. This workbook offers improvement suggestions for meetings and events on forty different topics, ranging from meeting objectives to openings and closings, and from dealing with elephants in the room to spicing up content.

To give a broader meaning to their new publication, the authors are setting up a “World Tour” of small-scale book launches. Each of these gatherings will investigate the added value of face-to-face meetings

in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, together with groups of participants from different countries. Their hypothesis is that f2f meetings will require clearer objectives and well-designed programmes to live up to their specific strengths in a new balance with hybrid and online. But how exactly? This applies in particular to providing the “human glue” in and between organisations. In addition, Mike and Eric believe that this added value is perceived differently in different parts of the worlda hunch they will flesh out, thanks to the format of their launch events.

The Tour consists of a series of smallscale, purpose-designed gatherings, held in cooperation with local partners in at least four European countries, three in East-Asia, two in the Middle East and two in the Americas. Together with their “crash-tester” Martin Sirk, during the IMEX trade show in Frankfurt in May 2023 the authors will report back on their findings, as well as in subsequent other international events.

This individual competition has been successfully organized by LinkedGolf for years and is being played from March to November. Due to the smart scoring system, the chances of a high final classification are more equal for all golfers. Anyone with a handicap of 54 or lower can register. Participation in the competition is free.

TUI golf competition

Reinier: “To bring TUI Golf Reizen to the attention, we are in a big way at the Holland Golf Show in March and we have our own TUI golf competition this spring. That is really a party for the club where club members compete for a place in the large national final. Golf clubs can still register for this. We also searched for an event with national coverage where also the golfers who are not connected to a club can play a role. Nice and accessible. LinkedGolf has a large online reach of enthusiastic and more important, travel -loving golfers. That fits well with our product. Tui Golfreizen and LinkedGolf are a good match in that regard. “

Air France and KLM to extend the GDS surcharge waiving currently in place for Travel Management Companies and Business Travel Agencies until December 31st, 2023.

The share of NDC bookings across the sales of Air France and KLM is continuously increasing.

1 coupon out of 4 sold by our distribution partners is now booked thanks to Air France and KLM’s NDC technology. NDC allows travel agencies to benefit from Air France and KLM’s latest innovations, including more attractive continuous price-points.

To accelerate the transition to NDC, Air France and KLM will progressively offer the lower fares exclusively via NDC and Air France and KLM’s direct channels, in the course of 2023.

For the Business Travel segment, Air France and KLM are still working in a collaborative mode with the Travel Management Companies to support their smooth transition to NDC.

The corporates’ ecosystem needs more time to adapt, especially for their selfbooking tools (SBTs).

Therefore, Air France and KLM will extend the GDS surcharge

Air France and KLM to extend the GDS surcharge waiving Silesia Convention Bureau has just been launched

waiving currently in place for Travel Management Companies and Business Travel Agencies until December 31st, 2023.

There is a new convention bureau in Poland as the Silesia Convention Bureau has just been launched. As revenues from business tourism are gradually increasing, the Silesian Voivodeship will focus more strongly on its development. The Silesian Tourist Organisation has just set up the Silesia Convention Bureau to boost this development.

The Silesian Voivodeship, located in the southern part of Poland, is characterised by its diverse tourism potential, has high-quality infrastructure, is very well-connected, and has many tourist attractions. In recent years, it has been visited by almost 6 million people. All this makes the region an attractive destination also for the organisation of business events.

During the inaugural conference of the Silesia Convention Bureau at the Silesian Stadium in Chorzów an agreement was signed with the first eighteen consortium members. These include representatives from the world of science, large and small businesses, representing diverse services and

individual sub-regions of the Silesian Voivodeship.

Thanks to the activity of the Silesia Convention Bureau, hotels, restaurants, operators of tourist attractions, congress venues, and companies organising incentive events will benefit, as they will receive comprehensive information and tourist offer of each sub-region. Finally, the whole region will benefit from being positioned as an attractive destination in the business tourism sector.

Corporate clients already account for more than half of hotel guests in the region. The functioning of the Silesia Convention Bureau will bring many benefits, said Adam Wawoczny, CEO of the Silesian Tourist Organisation.

Meetingselect and Kuoni enable one stop shop

Same Center Parcs, different business name

Center Parcs is changing the name of its business branch. With the name change to ‘Center Parcs Meetings & Events’, it confirms the investments made in recent years in its business centers and the business product. In addition, the name change helps to give business customers a clearer picture of the possibilities that Center Parcs offers in the business field. With a renewed range of almost all accommodation options, organizing meetings and events in the parks of Center Parcs is becoming increasingly attractive for a broad business target group.

True transformation of the parks offer new possibilities

In recent years, Center Parcs invested 740 million euros in its parks, which means that the parks have undergone a true transformation. In May 2021, the new strategic plan “Reinvention 2025” was also presented. This includes not only the renewal of existing parks, but also an expansion of the range of experiences, with even more sustainable initiatives and local projects. These innovations are illustrated by the new brand positioning, combined with a brand new visual identity, which were introduced on January 4.

The brand positioning not only focuses on the core business of the organization, but also in the approach towards the business guest. “As an organization, we want too specifically invite this target group to reacquaint themselves with our unique business offer under the title of Center Parcs Meetings & Events,” says Axel Waelbers, Country Sales Manager of Center Parcs and Sunparks in Belgium. Together with his Dutch colleague Eelco van Schellebeek, Country Sales Manager and responsible for the Dutch market, Waelbers looks forward with confidence: “In recent years, a lot of time and money has been invested in what everyone knows about Center Parcs; the nature, the accommodations, the restaurants, the Aqua Mundo and the leisure activities, but also in the business facilities, such as the business centers. With the completion of these locations just before or during the COVID19 period, it was difficult to bring this to the attention of our business guests. Now we see the demand for sustainable meeting and the desire for unique experiences with colleagues and relations increasing. Center Parcs Meetings & Events responds to these needs today and tomorrow”, says van Schellebeek.

Global destination management specialist Kuoni Tumlare and global meeting management platform Meetingselect have signed a partnership agreement. Through this collaboration, both companies can now provide a one-stop-shop for all Meeting & Event Services. Customers of these services will save time and money by having one supplier for all their Meeting & Event requirements. By joining forces through this partnership, Kuoni Tumlare and Meetingselect are able to provide a network of 250,000 conference hotels, 500,000 meeting rooms in 150 countries, and any additional services, related to the event. The partnership also makes it also easier to support large, decentralised organisations that lack central event policies in managing events across business units. Both companies jointly provide a full set of services, from approval to payments solutions.

The recovery of the meetings and events industry continues positively!

Despite some hijackers such as inflation, geopolitical challenges and economic uncertainties, we see (especially in Europe) that our industry continues to grow. According to an IACC (International Association of Conference centres) barometer, one-third of hotel/conference centre operators say they measure a recovery to above 80% of 2019 results.

By Pieter Allaerts

Residential venues (conference hotels) are said to be growing faster than nonresidential meeting venues. If event/meeting venue operators want to arm themselves for the future, the following two areas of focus are crucial;

1 - ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY POLICIES

Sustainability continues to increase in importance, though there are still clear regional disparities.

The barometer shows that ESG policies (Environmental, Social and Governance) appear to be of much higher priority for event planners in Europe than in the Americas, with European venues almost three times more likely to receive requests for their social responsibility credentials and twice as likely to receive requests for their environmental policies.

The same is true for requests for carbon measurements, with 21% of European venue operators receiving noticeable requests from clients to provide the carbon footprint to run meetings at their venues, compared with 6% in the Americas. Potential clients will ask venues to support in organizing their sustainable events. A sustainable event considers environmental

protection, social growth and economic progress by implementing best management practices during the planning and execution program. Sustainable events will focus on reduction of emissions, zero (or reduced) waste, offsets, sustainable accreditations, etc. Potential clients will identify a possible location by its centralized location in relation to where most attendees are located and also in an area with adequate public transportation options. Carbon footprint measurement, travel options, sustainable checklists, waste management, food packaging, staff training, operators better get ready!

2 - HYBRID ELEMENTS

Changes venue operators see in the adoption of hybrid meetings in the last six months were hybrid elements being added to events at short notice, to accommodate remote speakers. This is more common in the Americas (73%) than in Europe (48%). Similarly, the need for hybrid to be added at the last moment because of travel issues for attendees was almost twice as common for North American venues (60%) than for European venues (31%). In Europe 72% of the meeting planners said that 20% or less

of their events were hybrid, but growing. Going forward conference guests will expect that hybrid meeting options are available immediately, just like a flip chart is a part of a regular conference room.

While talent shortages are affecting much of the global economy, the hospitality industry has been particularly affected and the availability of talent is undoubtedly one of the greater challenges currently facing the meetings industry. The job opening rate for the leisure and hospitality industry was above 9% by the end of 2022, the highest of any major industry group and, according to Event’s Meetings Industry Pulse Survey, concern among meeting planners over hotel staffing is increasing. Meanwhile, the resignation rate for the leisure and hospitality industry is almost double the national rate. To address issues with staff shortages, some venues may consider automating parts of their services or operations. IACC asked respondents if they had automated or had plans to automate their back of house/operations or front of house/guest services. The majority of respondents does not currently intend to automate either, however a marginally higher share said it plans to automate their

ABOUT PIETER ALLAERTS

“Hospitality runs through my veins, positive thinking steers me in the right direction and confidence defines who I am.”

For 23 years, I have been getting my passion from ‘hospitality’ and the ‘MICE’ industry. In daily life, I am therefore very happy as European president of the trade association IACC (International Association of Conference Centers (https://www. iacconline.org/)), former president of the ‘European Advisory Council’ of the trade association MPI (Meeting Professionals International (https://www.mpi.org/)) and Director of Sales & Marketing for Dolce La Hulpe Brussels (https://www.dolcelahulpe. com/). #service #passion #hospitality.

back of house. These results were also broadly comparable across the different regions, although venues in Europe are more likely to have automated or plan to automate back of house (38%) than in the Americas (23%).

For those who continue to reinvent themselves with sustainable, innovative and exceptional meeting experiences, the future looks bright.

SITE conquers New York City

It had to be New York. The city where it all began for SITE, the Society of Incentive Travel Excellence. Over 750 delegates joined the Global Conference in the heart of Times Square. Start spreading the news.

SITE itself was very pleased, to say the least, with the success of the conference, also mentioned by CEO Anita Gregg. New York, never shy of attention, mentioned in the words of NYC and Company’s CEO Keving Dixon the importance of this particular field of business tourism. In a recap release SITE stated: ‘It’s fair to say that as the pandemic continues to fade in people’s rear view mirrors, we’ve firmly moved into the era of “experiences” and not just “events” or “programs”. Conversations in many of this year’s Global Conference breakouts focused on how incentive travel qualifiers are expecting more personalized, unique rewards. This will require even more intensive collaborations between buyers and suppliers, to meet these increasingly

high expectations and deliver the kind of experiences winners now place immense value on.

Global Conference itself leaned heavily on tapping its destination partners to provide plenty of destination-specific design elements to create unique experiences too, at each of the weekend’s three evening receptions. The streets of New York City came to life on the conference’s opening night, while Broadway belting and gilded glam of the Roaring 20s helped shape special experiences throughout the conference weekend.

CHALLENGES

While pandemic complications have since

quieted, challenges still remain for planners and their partners alike that are making it more important than ever to prove the demonstrable ROI of incentive travel. Discussions and dialogues from across the weekend showcased many different ways “value” can — and actively is — being showcased by end users of incentive travel and their partners. Bottom line costings and budget management are still important, but there’s also renewed, shared understanding about the role incentive travel plays in building company and team cultures: adding a newer, deeper twist on the true return of incentive programs.

SOLUTIONS

It was heard in nearly every facet of this

year’s conference; even with AI and digital solutions providing increasingly fast returns and permeating new corners of our world, making strategic business decisions requires solid, faithful human connections. Like its industry peers, SITE is also incredibly cognizant that when we bring our community together, we need to do so responsibly. We also need to be both intentional and mindful about how we show up and what we expect and ask of others as well.

SUSTAINABLE

A nod is very much due to this year’s host venue, the New York Marriott Marquis, for their sustainability initiatives that helped reduce the overall footprint of this year’s conference. SITE is also committed to continually increasing the number of diverse voices featured as part of its events so that we continue creating inclusive experiences that reflect SITE’s global community.

If this year’s SITE Global Conference is an indicator of the future of incentive travel — and, based on this year’s record-breaking

crowd of talented incentive professionals, we definitely think it is! — then the path ahead looks incredibly bright. We’re excited to work together towards an even more rewarding future for the industry, with our members and friends from around the world.

It was a very interesting gathering that will be even more accessible for Europeans next year as the Global Conference heads to Istanbul! Another dream destination to meet. (More on the Marriott Marquis and New York City in the next issue)

The future of our trade at SITE 50

Top talent in the Big Apple

Visiting SITE’s big birthday bash is always a pleasure. But even more so when you encounter a delegation of teacher, sponsor and students to gain knowledge. Josien Gerrits from InHolland Universite travelled with two student to the Big Apple, also with Raymon Honings the CEO of TravelMediate, co-sponsor of the scholarship.

By: Tijn Kramer

THE TEACHER: JOSIEN GERRITS

1) WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF?

How nice of you to ask our students and myself some questions about why we are here! Well; who am I? My name is Josien Gerrits and I am a Lecturer & Coordinator of Business Travel & Incentives at Inholland University of Applied Sciences, for Tourism Management. Students choose a specialisation (minor / track) in year 3 or 4. And if they have a predilection for Purchasing, Sales, Coordinating and the business aspect of Tourism; they join us in Amsterdam (Diemen). I am also the Chief Happiness Officer at Inholland University of Applied Sciences; a beautiful and important topic of work, happiness! I like to help colleagues and teams experience more happiness at work. So how happy are you actually with or at work?

2) WAT BRINGS YOU TO NYC?

What brings me to New York? We travelled to NYC with our 2 students Amber Schouten and Megan Schouten to the Site Global Conference 2023! A unique moment where students are already being introduced to the future field of work.

3) WHAT MAKES A TRIP LIKE THIS WORTHWHILE?

Worthwhile… the many inspiring sessions we followed and which I will take back to the Netherlands with me a suitcase full of ideas and the nice contacts we made, worldwide! Amber and Megan also made a really good impression and were able to make nice contacts think about internships and first jobs! Of course I have a lot of follow-up after the conference, various ideas in terms of intensifying our minor BTI and SITE Global together. With the aim of connecting students - Young Professionals and SITE Global and the beautiful field of MICE and Business Travel even more strongly.

4) THE BUSINESS TRAVEL TRADE IS ALWAYS LOOKING FOR NEW TALENT. WHAT IS INHOLLAND DOING?

We always try to match top talents or potential top professionals with great contacts in this industry! That is why it is so important that we are represented and present with a number of Young Professionals!

That is why it is so important that our programme Tourism Management is represented at these conferences or some

of the fairs like IBTM or next year’s IMEX, and of course you want to be right here with the Young Professionals!

But at the same time, this is not our core business, because besides your job as a teacher/coach, you have many other roles. But these are really the cherry-picked ones! When, as a proud coordinator, you get to go out with these professional ladies.

5) HOW WAS THIS SPONSORED? Hogeschool Inholland, Tourism

Management track BTI (Business Travel & Incentives) have set up with Travelmediate a scholarship. From a project/assignment of about 70 students, they worked on a travel programme worked out in an itinerary programme. Students have been given an assignment from the programme to organize a study tour for our year 1 students to various European destinations (purchasing, coordinating and also acting as tour guides actually executing the tour). They pitched the inspection programme to Travelmediate and from that we put some winners in the top hat! And Megan and Amber are the lucky ones among these winners!

The fine collaboration with Raymon from Travelmediate was able to establish many

contacts for us; making the landing very soft for the students! And they were able to make the most of it.

6) HOW WILL THE STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM THIS?

Ha fun question! How will students benefit from this? You may ask them that, but all the cards; personal growth and beautiful inspirational words what will they take with them in their personal journey... towards internship/ graduation and then soon the first job! How unique to be a part of this in NYC! In which she and I also came to seek more collaboration and opportunities! So that we connect with young professionals and this beautiful industry

7) WHAT DO THEY HAVE TO DO FOR THIS TRIP?

After setting up and working out an

inspection trip, they worked it out nicely in the digital programme TravelMediate works with. Raymon gave a guest lecture beforehand and gave the necessary tips & Tricks to the students (about 70 of them). The prize was: 2 plane tickets to New York to join Travelmediate at Site Global Conference.....

A unique opportunity for the students, of course! So eagerly they participated in this! And Megan and Amber are the lucky winners. From the course, we think it is very important that we continuously keep looking at where we can keep improving. This opportunity gives our so many possibilities, Amber and Megan give back to us where the chances are and possibilities they missed in the training. So the bottom line is that certainly everyone learns from it and we can work with that to run an even better education

programme! Without the collaboration with Travelmediate, it was not possible so we look forward to a fine collaboration for the next opportunities. So all parties learn something from this, which makes it so unique!

8) IS THERE LOTS OF ENTHOUSIASM FOR THE BUSINESS TRAVEL SIDE AT INHOLLAND?

Yes absolutely! If you ask our current students who have just returned from the various trips; they indicate: ‘This minor is so unique! You get a lot of responsibility because you get to organize everything from A to Z yourself with your project team, buying, selling, marketing, financially it has to be right and supervise it yourself. I really believe in giving a lot of training on skills and putting them in touch with the right field partners! So that they broaden their horizons themselves and thus become ready for the business Traveller of the Future!

9) WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM THIS YOURSELF?

What did I learn especially and take away for myself? The Site Global programme of many interesting speakers I got very inspired by. Above all, I take away with me, believe in yourself and go for it full force! And how valuable it is to be present at these conferences, or at various trade fairs / congresses and to introduce young professionals to this beautiful industry / world already during their programme (year 1) , so that they get a good and beautiful picture of where the opportunities and possibilities lie! So that’s my mission: to connect more!

THE STUDENTS: MEGAN (22)

‘NETWORKING WITH PEOPLE AND HEARING THEIR STORIES’

1. NAME, AGE, EDUCATION

My name is Megan Schouten and I’m 22 years old. I’m in my last year of the study Tourism Management at the Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam.

Amber, Megan, Amelia & Josien

2. WHY THIS STUDY?

In 2018, I went to New York and Costa Rica, and someone booked this trip for my family. I liked what she was doing, putting a trip together and sharing her experiences. I did my thesis for my previous study Junior Account Manager at a tour operator and worked there as well. This is how I found out that I wanted to do the study Tourism Management. I want to share people my experiences and show them the beautiful places in the world and have their own experiences.

3. WHY THE BUSINESS TRAVEL SIDE?

In my first year of the study, I went on a study trip to Malaga. Students organized this trip, and I asked them how they did it. So that’s how I came by the track Business Travel & Incentives. During this track, I organized a study trip to Barcelona for the first-year Leisure Management students. I enjoyed every minute of it to organize and plan this trip.

4. WHAT DID YOU HAVE TO DO TO QUALIFY?

The assignment was to make the itinerary of the study trip with TripCreator. Who did this the best would win the scholarship to New York.

5. WHAT DID YOU DO IN NYC?

In New York, we went to the conference SITE. SITE Global is a conference that is the annual meeting point for the global community of incentive travel professionals to connect, learn and discover.

6. WHAT MADE THE BIGGEST IMPRESSION?

I loved this conference for networking with people and hearing their stories. A lot of people take their time and come to another country/place for this conference. Everyone is so friendly and helpful.

7. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED?

During this trip, I learned that a lot of

students don’t know what Business Travel & Incentives is. This needs to change, so students get to know this industry and can also go to these conferences. I also learned that you need to follow your path and do what you want and like. During the interview with CEO Annette Gregg, she said: “It’s better to be respected than liked”. Especially as a woman, don’t be afraid to have your opinion.

8. WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTINUE IN MICE/BUSINESS TRAVEL?

When I heard of this industry it was an eye-opener for me. I like to organize trips for schools/companies. But also, the business events are amazing to connect.

9. DREAM JOB?

I have great ambitions in the (business) travel industry. This year I’m graduating, and I’m looking for opportunities in the future.

THE STUDENTS: AMBER (21)

‘THIS INDUSTRY IS VERY IMPORTANT WITHIN THE TOURISM WORLD’

1. NAME, AGE, EDUCATION

My name is Amber Schouten. I’m 21 years old and currently, I’m in the third year of my Tourism Management bachelor’s degree at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam.

2. WHY THIS STUDY?

When I was in high school, I always wanted to do something with hospitality. At first, I was looking at Hotel Management degrees, but in the end, I wasn’t fully convinced of that interest. I started looking for similar studies and that is when I came across this study. It was broader than other studies I looked at, but it was also a nice combination of tourism and management.

3. WHY THE BUSINESS TRAVEL SIDE?

I wasn’t familiar at all with the business travel side of tourism until I started a minor in business travel and incentives, where I got to know this industry better. I

found both sides very interesting. What I like about business travel is that leisure is not the priority. It is still important, but it’s more about good hotels and comfortable flights. That is what got me interested the most in this industry.

4. WHAT DID YOU HAVE TO DO TO QUALIFY?

During our minor, we had a couple of guest lectures from professionals who work in the business travel and incentives industry. One of them was Raymon from Travelmediate. He told us everything about his own business, but also about a certain program, TripCreator, where you can make a creative and attractive itinerary for an incentive trip. It was up to us to make such an itinerary in TripCreator for our own trip. Our final assignment for our minor was to create a study trip for the first-year students of our study. By creating the most creative itinerary in TripCreator about our own study trip, we were able to get qualified to

win this trip to NYC. Once the best teams were selected, two of us were drawn and won this scholarship. It was mostly about luck in the end!

5. WHAT DID YOU DO IN NYC?

In NYC, we visited the SITE Global Conference. This was a conference where we were able to meet all kinds of professionals in the incentive industry. Together with our teacher Josien and Raymon from Travelmediate, we went there to get to know this side of tourism better.

6. WHAT MADE THE BIGGEST IMPRESSION?

The biggest impression I got, was how important this industry is within the tourism world. It’s so very niche, but once you’re at this conference, you’ll see how many people worldwide are working in this industry. They are all very dedicated to their job. It was an eye-opener for me to see how big this industry actually can

be and mostly how less we students know about this.

7. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED?

I learned more about what the world of business travel and incentives look like. Even though I’ve been working on it for six months, it was still kind of unknown to me. Like said earlier, I now know more about the importance of the industry.

8. WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTINUE IN MICE/BUSINESS TRAVEL?

I will definitely consider it! I’m still keeping my eyes open for all kinds of tourism companies, but the MICE/business travel industry is definitely high on my list. I’m not graduating yet, so I have still time to figure out how I see the future, but secretly, I see myself working in this business once I’m graduated.

9. DREAM JOB?

A job where I can arrange a trip, but most importantly, where I can travel a lot.

LET’S MEET IN BRU SS ELS!

10 x sporty teambuilding

Health is hip! How about combining a team building outing with some physical exercise and friendly competition? Guaranteed the drinks after will taste even better!

By Rahanna van Stapele

1 Back to Basics

Employees who are not averse to some mud and don’t spontaneously get anxious from isolation? During this very active program you spend a full weekend in the Belgian Ardennes, away from all modern conveniences and daily luxury. You really get to know your colleagues while depending on each other and having to work together for survival. Because of its rugged environment, the Ardennes are the perfect location for all kinds of adventurous activities. Guaranteed it won’t be that easy. Here you get the feeling of being miles away from civilization, while in reality you are within driving distance from home. Archery, GPS Kotter Code, low rope, mountain biking and raft building, everything is covered during the survival missions.

Upon arrival, cars are immediately abandoned and as a team you will start to make your way to the overnight site, where you will sleep under the stars or build a canopy with offered equipment. Fortunately, a wildcard is offered during this outing: you can also choose to sleep in one of the group accommodations. Of

course, this day can be completely shaped according to your own preferences; it is also possible to start pleasantly with lunch and end with drinks.

2 All Aboard!

Can you think of a more atmospheric place than on the water? After joint efforts, sailing together along the coast, at best with the sun on your shoulders while glaring into the distance. During a day of sailing, your team will experience everything they need for the job: concentration, team-effort, conviviality and, of course, relaxation. On the water you can clear your head. After a nice reception with coffee and lunch you will enter the authentic ships and meet your own skipper. The ships are built like racing ships but very modern. You are really expected to roll up your sleeves but there is also plenty of room to bond, catch up and enjoy each other’s company. For the more sporty teams there is also the possibility to book and board a more sporty model ship, with this you can only have lunch or dinner in the accompanying restaurant before and after sailing. The skipper gives the directions, and your

staff is the crew. So this outing requires real teamwork. The day can end with an optional dinner or barbecue, arranged by the organization.

3 Fly & Drive

This outing is destined to be loved by real adventurers, and one of the most popular choices right now. During this combined fly & drive team day, you will drive Mini Coopers and Convertibles and even fly a little bit yourself in a sport airplane. This day can start off as a nice surprise, with participants getting into the cars, divided into groups of three, not knowing where they are heading. One of them navigates while the other steers. In the process, mapping out and following the route is quite an experience in itself. When finally the airfield appears in the distance, it will slowly become clear what the intention is. Here a Cessna airplane is ready to take off with small groups and fly above the beautiful Veluwe, among other places. Participants will even get to take over the controls for a moment. A dream, right?

After this special break, everyone gets back into their car to have a chance to win a final prize through various exciting

tasks. Another possibility is to get an official flying lesson at the airport, with theory lessons beforehand. You can choose between a silver and gold package, both with lunch in between. In the gold program, the day is started with e-chopper riding. Programs start from around 200 euros per person.

4 Wipeout!

Who doesn’t know the colorful and famous Wipe Out track from television? Cheap television that keeps you entertained. Participants of all sizes and ages attempt to get to the finish line of a moving obstacle course unscathed (we can already tell you: they aren’t many success stories). So this course turns out to be available not only for filming but also for spectacular company outings with humor. With the reassurance of not being broadcasted later, here you storm into obstacles such as the Big Red Balls, the Dizzy Dummy and the Mega Sweeper. With the exclusive license of Dutch television company Endemol, this is the only real wipeout location in the Netherlands, where annually about 20,000 people try their luck on the course. Once on location, you can choose between a red course and a blue course. Each course contains six different obstacles with both water and land activities. All courses last two hours and are always accompanied by an instructor. Groups larger than 15 are divided among multiple instructors so that each participant has

enough time to master the course (or go down, it’s just how you see it). To end this innovative afternoon, you can pick from a variety of packages at the event venue. How about the All-in-Food Festival or Green Egg Barbecue? Of course, you can also choose a buffet beforehand.

5

Tug O’ War

This fun activity tend to lean more towards the comical. Highland Games are sporting

events that take place throughout the year in Scotland and other countries, including Belgium and The Netherlands, celebrating Scottish culture. Think especially about Scotland’s sporting heritage. The Highland Games date back to about 4,000 years ago. Each year, after the autumn hunt, Scottish Clans got the chance to show off and determine which one is strongest. The games require strength, teamwork, communication and team spirit. At various

locations in Belgium or The Netherlands, colleagues go wild during games such as The Tug (tug o’ war) and the Caber Toss (the throwing of a tree trunk, which must then land perpendicular to the ground). As well as playing bagpipes, the Highland Dance, sledgehammer swinging, ball striking, a sleeper race, beer tasting, giant Mikado, wood sawing contest, the nail or the horseshoe. The activities are and can be adapted so that they are basically accessible to everyone. This is just a very atmospheric and original team building event with plenty of relaxation and laughs. In addition, you definitely get your share of culture sniffing -there are traditional objects on display and plenty is told about Scottish and mainly Celtic culture. Here

TEAMBUILDING

your team will learn to defend its region as a team, which, in our opinion, can only benefit the team spirit back in the office concerning rival companies. Catering options are available.

6 Hole-in-one

For anyone not in need of corny games, golf is an eternally prized classic to fall back on. At Royal Golf Club Oudenaarde you play with your colleagues in the middle of dreamy castle gardens. A Teambuilding & Initiation afternoon usually starts with a welcome in the castle, followed by an expert explanation of the sport. After a demonstration, the participants will try their own putting and golf swing. There is one guide per twelve participants.

Also to be found in Belgium is the idyllic golf course Golf Henri-Chapelle, where 1 to 4-hour golf clinics can be booked as team building. Introductions to golf last from 2 to 4 hours, practicing the basic techniques (putting, chipping and swinging). Again, the afternoon golf can be combined with a good meal in the restaurant.

Just over the Dutch border, in the city of Best, a corporate golf day can be booked. Even without any previous experience, you will have access to lessons and the 18hole course. The package can be extended with a culinary break. This can be done on the golf course itself by means of a special catering cart, or in the accompanying restaurant. Here you can finish off with a barbecue on the panoramic terrace.

7 Breathe, Breathe, Breathe

Completely hot and happening right now: Wim Hof, a.k.a The Iceman. Amidst extreme conditions like frozen lakes and ice baths, you learn the ultimate selfcontrol through breathing and focus.

And that famous method (international celebrities love it) can later be applied anywhere and will offer true guidance amidst your stressful modern existence. It is said to offer new energy, empower you and teach you to master fear and stress. The perfect workshop for an incentive! The day will be led by Bart Pronk, who works at the Wim Hof Academy and toured the world with ‘the iceman’ himself. In a beautiful rural location on the outskirts of Amsterdam, your group will collectively undergo a completely new experience, to finally go home with a new boost of energy. After the welcome, explanation and team building exercise, you will start with a deep breathing session with music and meditation. After a break with a healthy meal, the highlight of the day starts: the ice bath. Entirely in style, the day ends with a hot drink by the campfire and plenty of time to ask questions. The day can be fully customized, such as adding extra components or a festive evening program.

8 Sport Fishing

Probably not for everyone, but guaranteed to be a hit among outdoor enthusiasts and gourmands. Braving the sea by day and celebrating and toasting to the catch in the evening. In the port of Ostend (Belgium) you step on the Albatross boat for a fun day of sport fishing with colleagues. Once the boat is in the right spot, the ship’s siren will sound - the signal to cast out the rods. In the summer, you usually catch mackerel and redfish. In spring and fall, cod, dab, whiting and flatfish. For anyone who prefers not to fish or that isn’t keen on eating it, you can also just enjoy the healthy sea air and conviviality. Want to put a little more emphasis on the competitive aspect? Maybe add on the activity package they offer, complete with challenges and a catch trophy. Sport fishing can also be done from Den Helder on the Dutch coast. At Fishery Mercuur you can already book a sport fishing arrangement on the North Sea for 50 euros per person (up to 72 people). A ending with High Wine, High Beer and/or barbecue package.

whole day of sportfishing is uplifting but intense, which is why you can add one of the great food packages with a nice meal (only possible when renting the ship). Think of a Captains Dinner (capuchins with bacon, fried onion rings), Nasi a la Krijgsman (Nasi, meatballs in sauce) or a barbecue.

9 E-mountain biking

Explore one of Holland’s most beautiful natural areas by (e-)mountain bike, together with your colleagues! Amidst the beautiful forests, vast heaths and sand drifts of the Veluwe you get the feeling of being far from home. Several companies in and around the nature reserve offer mountain bikes and electric mountain bikes. This way you do not have to be a trained cyclist in top shape, and it remains manageable for everyone and therefore lots of fun. The mountain bikes can sometimes be delivered on location as well. Ride the most beautiful routes and plan an extended stop at a catering facility along the way.

For a more complete program you can go to Veluwe Specialist, which lets you put together a package of two activities and possible dinner. This way, an afternoon of mountain biking can be combined with a second sport such as climbing forest or archery, as well as an atmospheric

10 On the slopes

Need to get away from it all just a little bit longer? A winter sports weekend by organizer Expert in Action is guaranteed to please everyone. In Winterberg an exclusive company outing is offered with two nights in a hotel - equipment, activities and meals included. On the first day, the group departs by bus from Arnhem to arrive in Sauerland after a 2.5-hour drive. After a glass of sparkly wine or Warsteiner beer at the hotel and a tasty buffet, you will collect your personal winter sports equipment. The day ends with a special torch walk through the deep snow and a late night drink. The second day is all about skiing, snowboarding (with or without lessons), snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. A sleigh ride or visit to the brewery and an e-step-ride are also on the program. Of course with après ski and party night. On the last day there is teambuilding with ski bocce (comparable to the French game Jeu de Boules) or snow hexathlon, with the group returning home after lunch time. A fun weekend Winterberg can be booked from 375 euros per person.

‘Never waste a good crisis’

From time to time we like to invite the proven professionals of our trade to give our readers an update what’s keeping them busy. This edition, an interview with Marije Breuker and Huw Tackett, president of Euromic.

There is no denying that the incentive industry has been pretty shaken up by the global developments of recent times with the Corona crisis leading the way. Never waste a good crisis is something you sometimes hear people say and reason to see the perspectives of a few crucial parties in the incentive chain.

An interview with Marije Breuker, CEO and founder of Motivation Travel, and

Huw Takcett, president of Euromic. Euromic is a non-profit marketing association of the world’s leading Destination Management Companies (DMCs) specialising in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events industry.

The first question on the table is whether the business model has changed. The collaboration between the incentive agency and the DMC. Takcett says it has not changed significantly but sourcing many services directly DMCs have had to improve efficiencies to remain profitable and competitive. ‘Many DMCs had to relook at their efficiencies post covid. Many of them have implemented technology to produce proposals better and faster via technology so that they can

do more with less, the business model remains roughly the same charging for services they deliver, some have started to charge hourly as opposed to an overall management fee on net costs, but this remains the exception rather than the rule. At the moment. I’m aware many of our DMCs have looked at cutting costs, e.g. reducing office size, using more freelance staff on a per project basis.’

ADDED VALUE

Which immediately raises the question of whether the added value has also changed in recent years. ‘Here the fallout from the Covid pandemic proved that DMCs have a vital role to play in the supply chain and can be a vital strategic partner in times of need. As the industry moves forward, DMCS are taking

more responsibility for risk mitigation, sustainability and ensuring the end objectives of the clients are materialised.’ According to Takcett. Breuker agrees. ‘Perhaps this has been too much underexposed after all, and the ‘do it yourself thought’ has sometimes ruled too quickly.’

Both Breuker and Takcett are a bit more experienced in the industry but what do they see from the new emerging talented generation? ‘The newer generations demand instant responses and use technology very differently, however the energy and passion they bring to the industry is contagious. It is actually just like in any industry. The new generation again brings in new insights, more the perspective of the new, future

customer. This is very important because it keeps companies moving and flexible. Unfortunately, the corona pandemic also resulted in industry defections of a lot of talent; there were young potentials among them. It was not an easy time and the prospects at one point were not inviting. Understandably, many people had to get their income from somewhere else. But with the upturn in the market, many people have also returned. But projects run on people, in every step of the chain. It is and remains human work; you can’t get creativity from a computer. The realisation that good and skilled staff is important has surfaced once again. Which one leads to another important lesson learned during corona; the power of personal human connection, networking and spending time with

colleagues is vital to the success of any high performing company. People have a need to collaborate, socialise, and mix with each other

physically. I think another lesson learnt is that those partners who conducted themselves well, Pre, During and Post pandemic have emerged stronger with stronger relationships, those that handled themselves badly did not. Possibly the biggest change will be the mitigation of risk, many parties suffered during the pandemic, everyone is now very much more aware of how things can go wrong and will pay much more attention to avoid that happening again.’ Transparency is also a topic that comes up a lot and can sometimes set things on edge. Breuker has been working completely transparently with its clients for 20 years and that is not always the way everyone works. It is true that it sometimes makes you more vulnerable, but it also contributes to even greater trust between client and customer.

Breuker also wants its DMC’s to work transparently, but that is sometimes still difficult. We make clear agreements with our clients and together we agree on a fee. If that is 17%, for example, and our DMC turns out to earn more than 30% from the assignment, there is something wrong in the balance. But it still seems tough in practice to ask DMC’s for truly net prices with a fee on top. Sometimes it is not only how we would like to see it but also how the end client would like to see it. Corporates are now going to demand more transparency. This is not a pressure on margins but an invitation to work more openly and perhaps more honestly. Breuker does believe this will become the leading model in the future.

Tuckett adds DMC’s were paid properly for their time and skills, ‘however I don’t believe full transparency will happen until there is a significant shift in the supply chain, whereby a critical mass of DMCs and agencies collectively agree this is the way forward.’

Plenty of discussion and movement and that is always a good sign, it proves things are in motion...never waste a good crisis.

UPDATES from the field

Every issue we welcome trade organizations to the stage to share interesting news. Offering people in the know a relevant platform, must-reads for our readers. From GBTA, IRF and ICCA and many more. The stage is to the trade…

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GBTA Forecast: Full Recovery in 2026

The business travel industry in Europe continues its progress towards full recovery to its pre-pandemic spending levels of USD $392 billion, but the divergent recovery in business travel continues across the region. Europe’s business travel spend now accounts for approximately 20% of global spend compared to 27% in 2019. Emerging Europe and Western Europe were the only regions globally to experience spending declines in 2021, as COVID-19 impacted domestic and regional business travel markets. However, Western Europe is expected to experience one the sharpest recoveries by 2026. This is according to the most recent Business Travel Index™ Outlook annual forecast and outlook (2022), from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the world’s largest business travel association.

“In 2021, Western European business travel spend continued to be hit by the pandemic more than any other region in the world. As restrictions eased and borders re-opened, a significant pentup demand led to a surge in business travel spend across the region. Europe regained ground in 2022 and is now forecast to become the fastest growing

business travel market in 2023. Europe’s business travel spend is expected to grow by 25.3% in 2023. Despite this healthy start to the year, there is caution as uncertainty continues due to rising inflation and economic crisis, all threatening to derail progress as we move further into 2023,” said Catherine Logan, Regional Vice President, EMEA and APAC for GBTA.

Key Takeaways for Europe from the Latest GBTA BTI Outlook:

The recovery in both Western and Emerging Europe lagged relative to North America, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East. In 2020, Europe’s business travel spend declined 58.1%, the second largest percentage

drop of any global region. In 2021, most of the world saw a modest recovery, however, Europe was the only region that saw business travel spend continue to fall, declining an additional 15.4% to $139 billion.

Third largest

Despite earlier declines, Europe remains the third largest business travel region in the world with 20% of global spend in 2022. Western Europe accounts for 86% of Europe’s business travel spend, while Emerging Europe accounts for the remaining 14%.

Six countries — Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, and The Netherlands — accounted for 65.1% of business travel expenditures in the region last year.

Registration to open for ICCA Bangkok Congress

The International Congress and Convention Association – or ICCA -expresses confidence in the capacity of Thai MICE industry and Bangkok as a successful host of the 62nd ICCA Annual Congress 2023, with the expected 1,000 attendances. On the occasion of the memorandum of understanding signing for Thailand to host ICCA Annual Congress 2023 in Bangkok between Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and ICCA, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, stated that the signing, witnessed by the representatives of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), takes place during ICCA’s inspection trip of the venue and infrastructure in Bangkok between 5 and 9 December. The MOU is, thus, reflecting the readiness of Thailand and Bangkok in hosting the event of the global

association for international meetings. We aim to make the 62nd ICCA Annual Congress 2023 a carbon-neutral event to affirm Thailand’s determination in championing sustainability and to highlight Bangkok’s latest success in environmental credentials

IRF Incentive Trends 2023

The Incentive Research Foundation (IRF) has announced its signature study, The IRF 2023 Trends Report. COVID concerns have subsided, while workforce issues take on increased urgency. Given one of the most challenging labor markets in history, incentives are a critical business strategy to help organizations attract, retain, and build culture.

“As we enter 2023, incentive, recognition, and reward programs will be expected to have broader reach and deeper impact,” said IRF President Stephanie Harris. “Program owners are charged with motivating a changing workforce while dealing with major disruptions, including inflation, uncertainty, ongoing supply chain issues, and limited inventory.”

The top trends for incentive, reward, and recognition programs in 2023 include:

Expanded Role of Incentives

Professionals: The new decentralized workforce comes with new expectations and considerations for the structure and delivery of engagement programs to inspire employee performance and loyalty.

Incentive Travel is Scaling Back… The demand for incentive travel is strong for 2023, but economic and staffing issues are often forcing incentive program owners to scale back.

for the meetings industry after it won the Most Improved Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) 2022 during the 61st ICCA Annual Congress in Poland in November this year.

…And Ramping Up: In order to meet the needs of the changing workforce, incentive travel needs to be more exciting, more exclusive, more experimental, more authentic, and more memorable than ever.

Patience Has Run Out: Suppliers have noted that incentive clients now expect services to be delivered at pre-COVID levels, particularly where costs are higher than pre-pandemic.

Downtime Is the Hot Activity: Attendees want more choices in their schedules, time between programs, and blocks of time to recharge or catch up with work.

To read the full list of trends, and to view or download a copy of the full report, please visit The IRF 2023 Trends Report webpage.

BCD Travel reports on top travel risks

War, rising costs for air travel, and piracy are risks that might affect your business travellers this year, according to the Global Risk Forecast 2023, a report produced by risk experts Crisis24. Crisis24, a BCD Marketplace partner, provides security advisory, crisis management, cyber security, executive protection and journey management, and travel security services.

Global Risk Forecast 2023 explores the implications of geopolitical events such as the Russia-Ukraine war and global energy disruption and category risks such as extreme weather events and low-level piracy. With these insights, you can better prepare for and manage risk situations in your managed travel program. For example, when you consider the repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine war, you might initially think about travel restrictions. Yet, food scarcity, energy disruptions and higher prices for goods and services might also present challenges to your bottom line and your business travellers’ journeys. Piracy, for example, may not affect your travellers’ safety, but could result in increased shipping costs for products your company uses.

Return to air travel

The rise in air travel operating costs will linger in 2023, as fuel and labor costs increase and are largely passed on to customers through higher fares. Western airlines will also have to contend with the continued closure of Russian airspace. Airlines are likely to cut routes (particularly between Europe and Asia), increase fares and expand partnerships (as a cost-effective way to extend their reach of their networks).

New technologies will improve the passenger experience but could expose safety and security vulnerabilities.

Extreme weather effects

The La Nina weather event has occurred for three consecutive years. It has contributed to an upward trend in extreme weather events, promising more frequent and intense periods of drought, extreme heat and torrential rainfall. The latest La Nina event is expected to end this year, but its secondary impacts, including disruption to transport and utilities, food shortages and wildfire threats, will persist through 2023.

Rising low-level piracy

Low-level piracy, which typically entails robbery from vessels close to shore, is likely to increase and emerge in areas where it has not previously been reported. The spike will result in increased shipping costs. Fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic COVID-related disruptions will continue this year. Global supply chain issues will likely persist into 2024 due, in part, to these disruptors.

Other health-related issues

Vaccine-preventable disease immunization programs were largely halted during the

IMEX goes greener

Ahead of its May trade show, taking place 23 – 25 May, the IMEX Group has published its first ever externally-verified

pandemic, particularly in countries with underfunded healthcare programs. As a result, countries around the world are now seeing a rise in infections among these diseases. Aside from the health implications, this also has economic impact, as employee absences increase. Many countries are not unaccustomed to outbreaks of these conditions (as immunization had prevented them in the past). Larger countries and those with government-funded healthcare systems should cope better.

Asia Pacific supply chains

International agreements are restructuring

the way supply chains work in Asia Pacific. The RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) agreement signed in November 2020 ties some of Asia’s largest economies more closely to China. The IPEF (Indo-Pacific Economic Framework), launched by the U.S. in May 2022, has emerged as a counterweight to Chinese economic leadership in Asia. This also represents a clear escalation of economic competition between the U.S. and China, which will drive a shift in supply chains in the medium term. (source: BCD)

Sustainability Report for IMEX Frankfurt. The report for IMEX Frankfurt 2022 has been prepared by sustainability partner

MeetGreen, an organisation devoted to accelerating the event industry’s transition to a sustainable future. It marks an extension of an existing partnership as well as the first step in an ongoing process of data-gathering intended to measure and improve the show’s environmental impact.

The report is also an important milestone in IMEX’s Pathway to Net Zero. In working with an external authority to validate results, this report represents an important sustainability step for IMEX and establishes the benchmark against which all future IMEX Frankfurt shows will be measured. Previous environmental reports for IMEX Frankfurt have been conducted by IMEX staff only.

RENEWABLE ENERGY INFLUENCE

As well as benchmarking the show year on year, the report is designed to share the IMEX team’s learnings with the rest of the global business events industry and – ultimately – deliver long term change. A prime example of a long-term shift is the show’s energy use. Since 2012, IMEX has worked closely with host venue Messe Frankfurt to achieve 100% renewable electricity use. As a result, Messe Frankfurt has now adopted 100% renewable sourcing as a standard operating procedure across all its events.

A trade show with heart for an industry with muscle – IMEX Frankfurt 2023

“We’ve carefully curated all elements of this year’s IMEX Frankfurt show – from the layout, the education and the experiential - to complement and enhance these in person business conversations. We’re seeing momentum building all the time and look forward to throwing open the doors to our friends and colleagues this May.”

Trends-wise the show will reflect many of the big shifts and changes in the meetings and events industry globally. As a buying force, the Chinese market is back and Asia in general is flourishing, driving event demand, locally and internationally. The big tech companies in Korea are one of several factors behind this growth.

International hotel groups plus smaller boutique hotels will be making their

presence felt on the show floor, many of them introducing new service offerings or properties. Frankfurt itself has added to its hotel portfolio with several new openings including the impressive Scandic Hafenpark and B’Mine, the first WorldHotels Crafted Collection hotel in Germany, and NH hotels signature Nhow brand which IMEX is showcasing as hosted buyer accommodation in the city. Many hosted buyer hotels have also benefited from recent refurbishments including the Steigenberger Frankfurterhof, the Marriott, Hilton and the Westin.

Destinations, venues and suppliers span the world and include Croatia, Malaysia, Peru, Portugal, Ras Al Khaimah and Spain. Hotel groups Hilton, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Radisson are among the exhibitors

expanding their presence onsite as well as Los Cabos and Morocco. Sarawak, the largest of Malaysia’s 13 states, will have its own stand for the first time and will also be joined by the region’s Tourism Minister during the show.

EXPERTS FROM GOOGLE, MICROSOFT & PINTEREST

An extensive programme of over 150 educational and networking events begins with dedicated learning sessions the day before the show, on Monday 22 May.

Monday’s programme is tailored to specific sections of the event professional community:

· The complexities of delivering events in a hybrid world will be explored in detail at

“At the heart of each IMEX show is a living, breathing marketplace – the fundamental and effective way of doing business that powers our industry,” explains Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group.

Association Focus, delivered in association with ICCA, AC Forum, AMC Institute, ASAE, ESAE and Global Association Hubs.

· A stellar line-up of experts from worldrenowned companies spearhead Exclusively Corporate, IMEX’s high-level, invite-only event for corporate event specialists. This includes Microsoft’s Bob Bejan and Salesforce’s Charlotte Pedersen who will go head to head in The tale of two titans - the evolution of event strategy and experience design. Moderator Nicola Kastner explains: “Very rarely do we have an opportunity to learn from two massive tech brands taking such radically different approaches.”

· Year on year IMEX’s Agency Directors Forum is redesigned to meet the prevailing business needs of senior agency professionals. 2023’s facilitated discussion will focus on business management issues. Hot topics are set to include people and talent management; succession planning; business drivers, trends and technology and new business strategies, plus new revenue generation models.

· New co-located events for 2023 include MICE Impact Academy, an exclusive inviteonly education event for German planners, and ELX (Event Leaders Exchange), a meeting for this two-year old community of senior event corporate event leaders from 3,000+ headcount organisations with $3billion+ annual revenue.

HUMAN NATURE UNDERPINS LEARNING PROGRAMME

The IMEX 2023 Talking Point – Human Nature – provides a steer for education and interaction. Carina explains: “Our industry is in the business of human gatherings, face to face connections and building communities, so it felt natural to focus on what it means to be human in the 21st century. When we meet in person something special happens – from driving business growth to developing relationships that span the world. This need to come together and meet is an innate to our human nature.”

“Our Talking Point also helps to deliver a positivity boost - we’re focusing on what’s

good, constructive and loving about human nature; about our potential and ability to change, adapt and thrive in supportive and co-operative ways,” she says.

The result is a set of education tracks reflecting the way people live and work now. Event Marketing is a new addition, while Technology and Innovation; Trends and Research and Experience Design are tried and tested and always in demand. A new Business Practices track will include the ever-popular Event Planner Toolkit while a People and Planet track will specifically address Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), Professional and Personal Development, Leadership, Culture and Engagement, Wellbeing and Sustainability.

CHILDREN AS CRISIS MANAGEMENT TEACHERS

New headline sessions will feature contributions from values and human behaviour expert David Allison. From deep inside the data, David brings a clear and powerful truth to transform the way we work and the world we live in. “Our values unite us,” he says. “They can light the way for purpose-driven brands and lead us to a more values-driven world.”

International crisis leader Thomas Lahnthaler will talk about building successful remote teams. He’ll also join Eszter Mattiassich-Aszody, Head of Global Events at Siemens Healthineers to explore leadership and life lessons from children. Thomas explains: “Observing my children is looking at crisis managers in action. The skills that children execute daily are what we as adults have somehow unlearned because of our experience. I want to share these skills that we’ve forgotten how to use.”

The Listening Lab returns with both education sessions and bookable oneto-one coaching. Sessions will explore how people’s individual nature’s influence their professional personas as Dawn Wray, coach and co-founder of The Listening Collective, explains: “Everything’s connected. It’s impossible to disconnect the person and the work issue from who they are and how they show up in the world. We’re learning that people may say to us

‘I want to work on my presentation skills’, for example. But once they start talking, they talk more about how they feel when they’re presenting.”

NEW, SINGLE IMEX ACCOUNT

IMEX has also redesigned the online registration process for its shows. With a focus on improved marketing tools and business insights for exhibitors, to more and better connection opportunities for all attendee types, the new process means every participant has a single IMEX account for both shows. Pre-scheduled appointment functionality has been enhanced while the IMEX app has also been improved. The result is a faster customer journey intended to connect buyers and exhibitors to each other in a way that boosts business and networking return.

IMEX Frankfurt evolves every year and May’s 2023 edition will be no exception. This time around, however, attendees can expect a few surprises - the IMEX Group is set to evolve even further, with more details to be revealed onsite.

The match of your life

There is a storm coming to France this fall. A joyful storm of loud cheers, kindred spirits, true sportsmanship, a never give up attitude during the match, loving fans from all over the world joining in drinks together. All over France! Welcome to the Rugby World Cup. Coming this fall. Do not miss it and take your friends…

By Tijn Kramer

Bonjour. Let’s talk rugby for a little bit. You may have seen it come by on the television, may have heard of it. But perhaps, you once visited a high quality match and like your author, lost your sporting heart to the game. How can I describe it? Well, I prefer to let others do the talking:

Oscar Wilde said: ‘Rugby is a game for barbarians played by gentlemen. Football is a game for gentlemen played by barbarians’, later repeated by Winston Churchill. It is giving all, not whining at the referee, not rolling over when you are hit by a feather, and regarding your enemy for the match as a potential drinking buddy once the final whistle blows. Also for women, let there be not doubt about that. Unlike the FIFA, the Rugby Association just calls the World Cup ‘for women’ (to be held in 2025 again) just World Cup. Why specify for women? Well done! For me, ok, rugby is much like life. Hard times, good times, never giving up, falling down and getting up again, respect, defeat and victory. But above all fun.

Fair is fair, the Dutch and Belgian teams are not in the world top, and most likely

never will head that way. A matter of history. But that doesn’t mean this awesome sport called rugby is not popular in the Benelux. Both national teams may, at some point, hopefully make it to the World Cup, as talent is coming up and love for the game rising. But especially the fan base is huge! Even at the last Rugby World Cup, in Japan 2019, the leading number of visiting fans coming from a country that did not participate in the tournament came from… The Netherlands!

But now, in 2023, there is an enormous opportunity to see world class rugby live, as one of the biggest sports tournaments comes to France. From the 8th September to the 28th October 2023, the oval ball will unite 20 international teams for 48 passionate games in ten different cities in France. Paris, of course, but also Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Bordeaux, Nantes, Toulouse, Lille-Villeneuve d’Asq and Saint-Etienne also join the host lineup. What a way to combine visiting top sports and all that France has to offer!

Once you see it live, you’re hooked. Guaranteed. Full stadiums, live chants,

snacks and drinks, you all may know this from a good old high stakes football match. The excitement of the game. The huge difference however is the behavior of the rugby fans. This is one big family of sorts. You can show your colors at an away game, you will drink together, there may be funny jokes at the expense of other fans, but done both ways. Yes, bring your family, bring your kids or grandma. Of course there are more exciting games as especially England has a tough crowd against, whilst playing in Scotland or Ireland, but at the end of the day, it is sportsmanship all across the board. On and off the pitch. And that makes it fun. The stadium experience of course differs per stadium, as in football. But count on food outlets, beers and wines, a fan zone of sorts, the match scarf, just your pre match fun build up. My fav so far is Edinburgh’s stadium, but having been in Cardiff, Twickenham, Dublin and Paris, I can easily say, every venue has something unique. So that makes it fun to visit a few different ones in France!

Of course, the 2023 Rugby World Cup could not have asked for a better grand opening! In Saint-Denis, just north of

Paris, the first match of the competition will be played at the Stade de France, the largest stadium in the country. In the large 80,000-seat arena, the French Bleus will welcome the All Blacks, the famed nickname for New Zeeland. Two very strong favorites to meet again in the final. But there are more who can lift the cup. The ‘Bokkies’ are the holders and may take it once again back to South Africa. But Ireland are also favs, as are England, Australia, Scotland and even Wales and as a crazy bet Argentina. But also expect the wonderful rugby loving nations of Samoa, Fiji, Georgia, Namibia and Japan. And a great number more, not in it to win it, but certainly to try their damndest.

Rugby is big business! Analysis of data showed that men’s Rugby World Cup hosting can generate up to £2.9 billion in total economic impact, while direct visitor expenditure into the host economy can reach £1.1 billion. From its humble beginnings, the men’s Rugby World Cup is now regarded as the third biggest sporting event behind the FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games. RWC 2019 was the most economically successful Rugby World Cup ever with nearly £4.3 billion generated in economic impact.

So do not think you will alone. The last World Cup in Japan was a huge success. With a record 99.3 per cent attendance across the tournament resulting in 1.84 million tickets sold, in addition to a record 1.13 million people filling the official Fanzones and 242,000 international visitors enjoying the incredible hospitality of the hosts, Rugby World Cup once again took its place at the top table of global sporting events. France will most likely top this, as rugby is very much in the DNA of the home favorites.

TICKETS

So if you would like to go to the tournament, we recommend going the official way, either leisure or as an incentive. Regular tickets are pretty much all sold out and so are most hotels. We always advice against the black market. Best is to go the official way with a registered agent. P1 Travel takes care

of our market. As an official travel agent of Rugby World Cup 2023. They offer various ticket-inclusive travel packages for Rugby World Cup France 2023. From individual match packages to multi match knockout packages and from venue series (multiple matches in one stadium) to specially designed team packages. (see www.p1travel.com/rwc2023/)

LA FRANCE AND RUGBY

France is rugby crazy. While the heartland of the sport may be in the south, the game is popular in all of this cheese loving nation. The major stadium will be the enormous Stade the France in St Denis/Paris which has by far the biggest capacity. Trust me, hearing almost 100.000 French people sing

FRANCE

La Marseilleise is something not to be forgotten easily. But part of the fun will be moving around to the smaller cities, that have so much to offer. Where the fan base will take over the squares and streets on matchday, singing, drinking and having fun. Let’s take a little roadtrip and see what they have to other than exciting matches…

(source: rwc2023.com)

WINE IN BORDEAUX

Regarded as the wine capital of the world, Bordeaux is an exciting destination for many reasons. Located on the banks of the Garonne in south-west France, Bordeaux was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2007 in recognition of its priceless cultural riches and legacy which has survived through the centuries without losing any of its splendour. You can wander through the iconic columns of the Grand Théâtre; sample vintage wines at the Cité du Vin; enjoy the local speciality canelé cake; visit the impressive Place de la Bourse or take in the reflections of the Miroir d’Eau, the largest reflecting pool in the world. Alternatively, on the right bank of the river, marvel at the curiosities you will find at Darwin, a new, ecologically restored, creative space where skaters, street artists and green entrepreneurs mingle. Many more memories will be created during Rugby World Cup 2023 at the brand-new, ultra-modern Stade de Bordeaux, the largest sports arena in the south-west of France.

NEARBY LILLE

This is the perfect venue to go by car or train! Whether you’re strolling along the Grand’Place, wandering around the Old Quarter of Lille or admiring the Vielle Bourse (the Old Stock Exchange), discovering Lille is an enjoyable experience. It is a city characterised by its cultural vitality, quality of life and festive spirit. Lille has a tradition of hosting major events, both cultural and sporting. It successfully hosted Eurobasket 2015, UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2017 World Men’s Handball Championship, as well as the Davis Cup tennis finals in 2014, 2017 and 2018.

The Stade Pierre-Mauroy is an ultramodern venue with a retractable roof and a special feature, the ‘Boîte à Spectacles’ which allows half of the pitch to slide back over the other to transform the stadium into an arena for concerts or sports such as basketball.

TASTY LYON

Lyon is a city at the heart of many currents, located as it is where the Rhône and the Saône rivers meet. The city’s illustrious heritage is marked by a litany of notable people, from the Lumière brothers, the godfathers of cinema, to Paul Bocuse, a three-star Michelin chef for 53 years. The history of Lyon, the capital of Roman Gaul, reads like a Who’s Who of French cultural pioneers. Situated at the centre of the major wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes-du-Rhône, Lyon is famous for wine but also has a rich food tradition. No visit to Lyon would be complete without a visit to one of the ‘bouchons’, traditional restaurants unique to Lyon serving the local specialties and found in the alleyways of the Old Town, the Terreaux district, Rue Mercière and Rue des Marronniers. It is in this context of hospitality that during Rugby World Cup 2023 Lyon will welcome the world’s best players to the OL Stadium, the third largest in France.

THE FEISTY ONE…MARSEILLE

The oldest city in France has always been a cosmopolitan city, open to the world from its prime position on the Mediterranean Sea. Since ancient times, it has been an important cultural and commercial crossroads.

You should take the time to climb up to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde (called the ‘Good Mother’) which overlooks the city, stroll through the legendary Panier district, or relish a bouillabaisse at the Old Port. You could also get away from the bustle of the city by hiking the trails of the Sormiou or Sugiton calanques, rocky inlets which offer breath-taking views over the sea.

Marseille, France’s main port, is known as the ‘Gateway to the Orient’. Rugby World Cup 2023 presents a new opportunity to showcase all it has to offer after the successful hosting of the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Rugby World Cup 2007 and UEFA Euro 2016. Known for its passion for sport, Marseille welcomes Rugby World Cup 2023 to the Stade Vélodrome, the scene of some of the greatest sporting exploits.

CREATIVE NANTES

Nantes, in the west of France, traversed by the Loire River and close to the Atlantic, is well-known for the quality

Stade Vélodrome Marseille

of life there. Nantes is a vibrant city, full of history, impressive monuments and cultural interests.

Between the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Machines de l’Île, between the Passage Pommeraye and the Creative Arts District, the city effortlessly balances tradition with modernity. Its easy living, historical heritage and cultural vitality are appreciated by tourists and visitors who increasingly find reasons to return.

Stade de la Beaujoire has been the scene for many unforgettable concerts (Pink Floyd, U2, Johnny Hallyday, to name a few), while it left its mark on Rugby World Cup 2007 when Fiji stunned Wales 38-34 in their pool match to reach the quarterfinals, to the delight of the crowd.

GO GREEN, GO SAINT-ÉTIENNE

Saint-Étienne has a rich industrial past and was considered the industrial capital of Europe in the 19th century. It values its distinctiveness and pioneering spirit and is the only French city to be designated a City of Creative Design by UNESCO. The richness and variety of the territory lies waiting to be discovered in the Cité du Design; the Musée de la Mine; its theatre, La Comédie de Saint-Étienne; and the Museum of Modern Art. Steeped in history, Saint-Étienne is proud of its unique heritage.

Sports fans will know how dear the green jersey of Saint-Étienne is to its supporters. Its football team has thrilled generations of fans and excited the entire country. At the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, internationally known for its incredible atmosphere, the emotional experience cannot be beaten! Having already hosted Rugby World Cup 2007 and UEFA Euro 2016, the stadium will once again resonate with excitement for France 2023.

THE BIG ONE: SAINT DENIS (PARIS)

The story of Saint-Denis continues to be written before our eyes. A short distance from the centre of Paris, this energetic district draws its strength from its multiculturalism, its inspiring dynamism and its ability to reinvent itself.

Saint-Denis is also home to the largest

and most impressive sporting venue in France, the Stade de France. It has provided the backdrop for exceptional events and concerts and is inseparable from the most iconic sporting events; the 1998 FIFA World Cup the 2003 IAAF World Championships, Rugby World Cup 2007 and UEFA Euro 2016 among others. As the venue for the opening match and the final, Rugby World Cup 2023 will add to the illustrious history of the Stade de France.

RUGBY HEARTLAND: TOULOUSE

Toulouse is a destination not to be missed in the south-west of France. It embodies the best of the region’s festive spirit and unique atmosphere. Located on the banks of the Garonne, the charming city centre combines tradition and easy living, with the iconic meeting place the Place du Capitole, and its imposing Provencal cross, at its heart. In this home of ‘bon vivants’, the food is generous and hearty, offering such local specialties as the world-famous cassoulet and saucisse de Toulouse.

The European capital of aeronautics and space, Toulouse will be reaching for the

stars during Rugby World Cup 2023. Its enthusiasm for the oval ball will be on full display throughout the city, and even more in its stadium, nicknamed Little Wembley, where the opportunity to support and cheer on sporting exploits is never missed.

NICE AT THE SEA

Nice, the capital of the Côte d’Azur, is one of the most beautiful cities in France and is located in the French Riviera, between the Mediterranean and the foothills of the Alps. With 300 days of sunshine on average per year, there is no bad time of the year to visit Nice, a city loved by both tourists and the French alike. Try the Mediterranean gastronomic specialties of Nice, pan bagnat, pissaladière or socca in one of the small restaurants hidden away on the typical narrow streets of the city or on the piazzettas. Following the success of UEFA Euro 2016, Nice is ready for another international celebration during Rugby World Cup 2023, showing off its new stadium which prides itself on being one of the most environmentally responsible in Europe.

SUSTAINABILITY FOR DUMMIES

Sustainability has become the most important issue in our industry. Tourism is finally enjoying a revival again. However, this also has a negative impact on the environment, local communities and the cultural heritage of the places visited. And then you get detractors. Some call for us to stop travelling. This is nonsense. Our industry works as a

By Pieter Weymans

connector and is one of the biggest drivers of the international economy. Travel contributes to a better world. This both in terms of cultural exchange and wealth distribution.

But there is work to be done. If we want to continue to grow in a sustainable way, a lot of efforts will have to be made by the

various actors. Nevertheless, numerous initiatives are already being taken that are not yet sufficiently known to the general public. It is therefore our job as travel professionals to inform our clients with concrete examples.

The airline industry is crucial to the travel industry. Many travellers rely on airlines to get to their destinations quickly and efficiently. The aviation sector has also made travel more accessible to a large group of people and provides jobs for pilots, cabin and ground crew and suppliers. But the sector is also often headline news in climate debates. What exactly is this about?

Facts & Figures

The aviation industry accounts for about 2-3% of man-made CO2 emissions, contributing to global warming. This does add up to domestic, international

and cargo traffic. Besides CO2, aircraft also emit other harmful substances, such as nitrogen oxides and water vapour, which amplify the greenhouse effect and indirectly contribute to climate change. If

you include these, aviation’s contribution accounts for 3.5 to 4%. Should you consider aviation as a whole as a separate country, it would end up in the top 5 largest contributors.

Impact of global aviation industry on climate change

CO2 emissions: 2-3% CO2 + harmful non-CO2 emissions: 3.5-4%

In this section, we take a closer look at sustainable initiatives within aviation. We talk about Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Towards Net Zero Emissions in the aviation industry

Controversy

Let us take CO2 emissions as a benchmark for a moment. Then we are at 2 to 3% with aviation. That is narrowly higher than shipping, for example, and considerably lower than industrial companies, which account for almost a quarter of all emissions.

So why does aviation get such a bashing?

The answer lies in the difference between individual and collective CO2 emissions. In other words, the conscious footprint. And this increases exponentially when you fly. This can amount to 100 times more emissions per hour than, say, a bus or train. Because there are large inequalities in the extent to which people fly - many don’t fly at all - the collective emissions are then relatively not so bad again.

What is SAF?

SAF stands for Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The big difference between SAF and traditional aviation fuels is that SAF is more sustainable and has less impact on the environment. This is because SAF is produced from renewable sources, such as vegetable oil, waste and residues, algae, industrial gases or even from CO2 taken from the air. Using SAF can reduce CO2 emissions from aviation, thus contributing to a better climate and environment. By using carbon that is present or would otherwise have been emitted into the atmosphere, SAF can reduce aviation CO2 emissions by up to 100% compared to conventional jet fuel.

Net Zero by 2050

In October 2021, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) adopted a resolution committing the global aviation industry to reduce carbon emissions to zero by 2050.

To achieve this goal, the industry must gradually reduce its emissions while meeting the growing demand of people eager to take the plane. Ten billion people are expected to fly by 2050. This requires a collective effort from all industry stakeholders, including politicians. They must work together to deliver sustainable connectivity and ultimately break aviation’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Scaling SAF to Meet Demand

This is the plan

The plan is to reduce the size of the aviation industry by 1.8 gigatonnes of carbon by 2050. IATA expects sustainable aviation fuels to achieve 65% of this reduction. New propulsion technologies,

Exponential growth

Accelerated decarbonisation of the aviation sector is feasible if renewable aviation fuels follow the same trajectory as wind and solar energy.

To understand how this growth can be achieved, scientists studied patterns in other renewable energy industries. They

such as hydrogen, can contribute another 13%, while efficiency improvements account for another 3%. The rest can be offset through carbon capture and storage (11%) and offsets (8%).

identified the key factors that contributed to the success of wind and solar energy’s exponential growth and applied these proven trajectories to the SAF industry. The SAF industry exhibits all the characteristics of the exponential growth patterns observed early on in other renewable energy industries, particularly solar and wind power generation, battery storage and renewable fuels for land transport. These sectors experienced exponential growth of 30% to 55% per year during their fastest 10-year growth period.

So if all actors work well together, a lot is possible in the very short term.

• Aviation has a significant share in climate change, and depending on how you look at it, you can either overplay it or downplay it.

• The global aviation industry recognises this contribution and has concrete plans to fly Net Zero by 2050.

• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) will make the biggest contribution in the decarbonisation of aviation in the coming years.

• Currently, concrete initiatives have already been taken. For example, the first SAF flights have already been carried out.

• With the necessary efforts, the SAF industry can grow exponentially, just as it did with solar and wind power.

• No, quitting flying is not the solution.

Jan Peeters, columnist

2019 is over.

Do we want it back?

It is very strange, how volumes, occupancy rates and 2019 sales have apparently become a benchmark to measure success, today. “Better than in 2019”. “More than in 2019”. “Almost as much as in 2019”. These have become today’s victory cries. While 2019 was no more, than a year in history. Today, we are all extremely focused on the immediate future, daring to think about growth again. And that growth, it seems, is entirely compatible with sustainability, the climate crisis and CO2 emissions.

I grew up with the mantra “we grow our way out of every crisis”. But that model is now being questioned. A new report by a consortium of organisations focused on sustainable tourism warns that a responsible approach to climate change - one that will allow the tourism industry to meet the United Nations’ goals of halving global emissions by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050 - is unlikely to be compatible with trends showing a doubling of tourism between 2019 and 2050. In other words, projected growth (just look at IATA forecasts) is putting the planet in trouble.

Difficult message.

The report was published by the Travel Foundation, called “Envisioning Tourism in 2030 and Beyond”. Here is the ultra brief summary: the team behind the report, sees no way to meet the 2030 target while growing tourism, but it has identified one scenario by which the 2050 targets can be met without shutting things down.

So actually good news. It’s not going to be easy, and everyone is going to have to make choices. The team’s aim was to find a way to keep travel growing while meeting the climate goals arising from the Paris climate accords adopted in 2015.

“We have delayed action for too long and, as a result, our options have narrowed,” writes Jeremy Sampson, CEO of the Travel Foundation, in the report.

Continuing with business as usual, including maintaining current growth rates, is not a serious option, the report concludes. The world is already facing dangerous and widespread disruption from climate change, and those effects will only get worse by 2050.

“There are huge opportunities for travel and tourism in a carbon-free world, but we must act urgently and unite in our vision of a ‘good’ transition,” Sampson writes.

“The key message is that we have entered a new paradigm where the only option is systemic transformation. We must therefore denounce the many overly optimistic strategies and plans that assume - implicitly or explicitly - that we can continue as before in the (blind) hope that technology and compensation will get us through.”

I found a very important message in the report. The tourism sector is not the main problem, but it may become one of the main victims.

Tourism is not responsible for excessive levels of carbon dioxide emissions. Direct emissions from things like travel are estimated at just 5% of global carbon dioxide emissions. But even if the tourism sector is not the world’s biggest offender, it is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, whether it is beaches affected by rising seas, ski resorts without snow, or raging forest fires. For some companies, dealing with climate change is a matter of survival. No, let me rephrase that: for our industry, addressing climate change is a matter of survival.

So what can be done? The report identifies two options: Either curb the entire global travel system - a choice that hurts everyone in the industry and could ruin destinations and businesses that depend on tourism revenues - or prioritise net zero travel such as trains and electric cars, while reducing long-haul flights, which pollute the most. The first option looks very much like a covid-like situation. Nobody wants that, except for a bunch of fanatics who wants to go back to the Middle Ages. The second is difficult, but doable if you think about it in detail.

Airlines need more time to develop more sources of sustainable aviation fuels and replace less efficient fleets, the report found.

To achieve the targets, the report recommends limiting long-haul travel to 2019 levels, while air tickets are taxed to generate money to invest in research and development, and train tickets are subsidised to encourage more travellers to use the carbon-friendly option.

According to the report, air tickets will be two-thirds more expensive by 2030 than in 2019 and three times more expensive by 2050 than in 2019.

The report says that if tourism can play out its scenario, total travel will double between 2019 and 2050, total revenue will increase by 80% and total overnight stays will increase by 91%. Even with higher ticket costs, the report predicts that the number of flights will continue to increase, just at a slower pace. And: low-cost airlines - they will have to think twice.

The report’s authors believe it is important that the industry continues to grow, not only to protect the business interests of those who depend on tourism, but also to address another concern: Ensuring that existing inequalities in tourism are not exacerbated, by making travel only the preserve of wealthy elites or by making developing countries bear a disproportionate burden of climate change impacts.

The good news is that this is the first report that does not question the future of tourism as a growth industry. And that in itself is a relief, for those who have occasionally pondered the future over the past two years.

The climate discussion within the travel industry has, I think, come to a new phase. A track that leads somewhere. There is a future for travel. In a good world. Hell, yes!

Whether you’re looking to host your next meeting, or a memorable incentive trip to a Mediterranean location, the Maltese Islands are your next destination!