Spring into action
Whether it's the vaccine roll-out, the furlough extension, the longer days or the prospect of coming out of lockdown (however gradually) there is definitely a ripple of optimism washing over the business travel community. Note, I say ripple not wave, but the long-awaited travel restart finally feels within reach and the mood has noticeably lightened. Preparations are being made for when the restrictions are lifted and people can move around again, albeit differently.
We've all now come to terms with the fact that when business travel returns it won't be the same – but in many ways that's not a bad thing.
For all the disruption and upheaval the pandemic has caused, it has also brought about some hugely positive changes.
Traveller wellbeing, for example, is now top of the agenda (see our feature on page 18) and with it the need for diversity and inclusion has also been brought into sharper focus (see Speaking Out on page 7).
A crisis often brings out the best in people and TMCS, in particular, have stepped up to help companies tackle the recent challenges. As a result, there's been a positive shift in the relationship between corporates and their TMCS, with a new-found mutual respect from both sides, as we explore in our 2021 TMC Guide.
As we come out the other side, your business travel might need reimagining (see page 8) and we hope there's plenty of content in this issue that will help you along that path. Finally, if you haven't yet seen it, check out our new website – thebusinesstravelmag.com. It's loaded with lots more to inspire, inform and entertain you. We've been reimagining too!