BUILDING FROM SCRATCH

Darryl Mcgarvey, Director of Channel Development at SAP Concur, says they work with SMES both through TMCS and directly with the client - the same booking platforms and technology are offered to all sizes of organisations.

“Some SMES are not of a size to engage with a TMC to gain access to their services and expertise – our Triplink product is a much better fit for them,” says Mcgarvey.

“This allows businesses to manage their own travel programmes, but still have access to the consolidation of data they would usually get through working with a travel management company.”

There is also the option of using a high street travel agency chain. It may seem like an 'old school' approach but brands such as Flight Centre and STA Travel – who both have numerous retail stores – have each been targeting the SME business travel sector, recognising its potential.

“We stand out from typical TMCS because we are a truly global company,” says Ellen Rayner, Director of STA Travel’s travel management division.

“Our global network of stores means hands-on support is never too far away. Getting the best price is our priority. SME business clients are treated to bespoke corporate hotel rates and we also negotiate exclusive corporate airfares and rail bookings,” Rayner explains.

The choice of travel management options for SMES has never been greater and continues to grow – whether they want to go down the full TMC route or simply dip their toes by using an online booking tool for little or no initial cost.

A Uk-based technology start-up saw their workforce grow from two to 50 people in five years, with business travel also increasing

quickly to Europe and the US.

The SME originally had no TMC, travel policy

or anybody in charge of travel internally. The company wanted to work with a TMC to make savings on airfares, improve booking efficiency and implement a travel policy to enhance the safety and security of travellers. The financial director was appointed as the internal “travel owner” and then implemented a travel policy with the help and advice of

CTM Europe.

CTM assisted the company in signing up to airline loyalty agreements, including both corporate and individual traveller schemes, and securing specific SME airfares and hotel rates. It also began weekly pre- and post-trip reporting to monitor spending and

compliance with policy.

After the first 12 months, the client had achieved 97% policy compliance and 74% online booking adoption, as well as savings of 23% on airfares and hotel savings of 5%. The company also saved an estimated four hours per person per week by using a booking tool.

We are continuing to explore new techbased travel management solutions to help businesses with even smaller spend”