IS TOP PRIORITY

Travel buyers ranked 'managing the return to travel' as their number one priority in 2022, according to ITM'S annual survey of buyer members.

The priority, which was included in the survey for the first time, was closely followed by duty of care, traveller wellbeing and sustainable practice.

While sustainability appears to have retained its fourth place position, it has in effect risen one step since last year, taking into account the new number one.

In addition, 58% of buyers expect to see a modal shift in air to rail travel in 2022 compared with 33% last year.

Diversity, equity and inclusion moved into the top 10 for the first time, rising two places to rank ninth, while budget control fell by two places to sixth place.

The poll also found that 51% of buyers will not make any changes to their TMC commercial models as a result of the pandemic, while 38% will switch to a hybrid model and only 2% said they would switch to a subscription model.

When asked about the development of their role, 58% of buyers said the pandemic has impacted favourably on their profile and value within their business. Only 5% said it had been affected less favourably.

Over one third said they are now actively involved in their company’s rationale about the ROI of in-person meetings.