Small but mighty

SMES are small cogs in the economy but their output, cumulatively, is mighty. Moreover, today’s small business is tomorrow’s big-hitter. TMCS and suppliers are increasingly wise to the rich potential of this sector and SMES are now better catered to in the travel management arena than ever before. Find out more in our extended feature on pages 63-84. Delegates from small and medium-sized businesses typically account for around half of attendees at The Business Travel Conference. Our annual two-day event takes place in London on September 17-18 featuring 14 conference sessions and some 60 exhibitors. It's free to attend and there's still time to register, so what are you waiting for?

Keen-eyed subscribers might have noticed a subtle change when this issue landed in their laps. While the magazine has been printed on recycled paper for some time now, this is the first edition to be distributed in a fully compostable wrapper. Derived from potato starch, it is a considerably more environmentally friendly alternative to polythene wrapping. It's a small but important change in the way we operate.

Lastly, this issue marks the end of an era for The Business Travel Magazine and my colleague David Clare – it is his last edition as Publisher. David has been an instrumental figure at BMI Publishing for more than 20 years. He oversaw the launch of The Business Travel Magazine in 2006, has ensured its ongoing commercial success, and helped develop our wide portfolio of events. We thank him for his dedication and innovation over the years and wish him a fond farewell, from myself, Kirsty Hicks and the team.