After years of digital meetings and hybrid setups, 2025 marks a clear turning point. Across industries and continents, business travellers are back on the move. This time, they’re not travelling for the sake of it. From Jo'burg boardrooms to cross-border conferences in Windhoek and Nairobi, the emphasis is on purpose-driven, face-to-face interaction.
According to SAP Concur, 67% of global business travellers believe travel is critical to career growth, and it shows. From client retention to deal-making and internal alignment, the message is clear: in-person engagement still holds unique value. TravelManor is seeing this shift first-hand, as companies seek smarter, more meaningful travel strategies for their teams.
Recent data reinforces what many of us are experiencing on the ground. Domestic airline ticket sales in Australia, for example, rose by 70% from December 2023 to January 2024, and again by 49% in February. Similar trends were seen in international bookings, which increased by 53% in January alone.
According to the GBTA’s global industry poll, 59% of buyers and suppliers reported more in-person meetings year over year, and 52% expect bigger travel budgets in 2025, largely driven by client visits, events, and team offsites.
From SMEs in Cape Town to corporates based in London, the rebound isn’t limited to one market. Business leaders across the globe are choosing to meet in person, and they’re backing this up with budget.
Learn more: How Gen Z Is Revolutionising Business Travel In 2025 And Beyond
While digital tools have improved, they haven’t replaced the nuances of human connection. According to an Amex GBT/Ipsos study, 6 in 10 business travellers say there’s no substitute for face-to-face time. Whether you’re building trust in a new market or strengthening internal cohesion, being there matters.
Younger professionals are especially keen. A TravelPress report notes that 65% of employees would trade remote flexibility for more in-person interaction. And it’s not just about meetings. It’s the spontaneous conversations, the shared meals, and the on-site problem-solving that build momentum and alignment.
For South African firms expanding into SADC territories, face time with clients and partners remains a non-negotiable. Nothing beats being on the ground, and the ripple effect shows in both relationships and results.
Read next: 7 Business Travel Trends That Clever Travellers Will Leverage In 2025
With increased demand comes new complexity. SAP Concur’s data reveals how domestic airfares shifted significantly throughout 2024: from $426 in February, dipping to $392 in July, before peaking at $447 in October. International fares followed suit, fluctuating in response to seasonal demand and global fuel costs.
For HR teams and travel managers, this means forward planning is key. Booking well in advance, aligning travel with high-value events, and leveraging negotiated rates can make a significant difference.
At TravelManor, we support companies by offering centralised travel and expense management, ensuring every trip is aligned with policy, cost-effective, and logistically smooth. From visa coordination to regional connections, we help you manage mobility while staying in control.
Also see: How Business Travel Boosts Social Capital And How This Helps Your Company
It’s not just about business efficiency. More travellers are looking to enrich their work trips with personal elements. Whether it’s a weekend cycling through the Tuscan countryside after a trade show in Milan or visiting Kyoto’s temples following a board meeting in Tokyo, the rise of bleisure is here.
This isn’t indulgent; it’s strategic. Professionals return more energised, motivated, and connected. And in today’s tight talent market, offering well-designed travel experiences contributes to employee satisfaction and retention.
To stay ahead, here’s what smart organisations are focusing on:
2025 belongs to businesses that show up in the room. Those who are visible, agile, and ready to connect will be the ones closing deals and building brand equity. At TravelManor, we’re here to help make those moments happen, with insight, care, and the logistical precision today’s corporate travellers expect.
Let’s put people back in the room. Reach out to TravelManor to plan purposeful travel that connects your team to what really matters.