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- Category: Industry News
GBTA: Canadian Business Travel at Pre-Pandemic Levels in 2024
The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) is encouraged by new reports that the Canadian business travel sector is on track to best its pre-pandemic level of travel this year, according to data from its Business Travel Index (BTI). The announcement was made during the association’s Canada Conference 2024, held in Toronto April 22-24.
GBTA forecasts indicate Canadian business travel spending is anticipated to reach $25.9 billion USD, representing annual growth of 13.5 percent. This outpaces both global (11.8 percent) and United States (9.2 percent) growth forecasts. In 2019 before the pandemic, Canadian business travel had reached $25.7 billion USD.
Some additional highlights:
- Canadian travel buyers expect to spend more on business travel in 2024, with nearly three in five (59 percent) planning for their companies’ spend to be higher compared to last year. They reported spending an average of $884 USD per business trip in 2023.
- Nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of Canadian travel buyers expect their company will take more business trips this year compared to last year, but two in five (18 percent) expect the same volume of business trips.
- When asked about challenges, Canadian buyers and suppliers cited financial concerns at the top of their list, namely the rising cost of travel, overall economic conditions, and corporate budgets not keeping pace with needs.
- 55 percent said they blended travel (bleisure) more than they did in 2019.
- 82 percent said business travel is worthwhile in achieving their business objectives.
Visit gbta.org for more information.
USTA: FAA Amendment Would Undermine Aviation Security
The US Travel Association (USTA) is expressing concerns about changes to the FAA reauthorization bill, citing that certain updates would be “dangerous” for the future of passenger screening and cause unnecessary delays. The association says that the automated facial matching technology—an optional but popular feature among flyers—is being targeted by an amendment from Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Senator John Kennedy (R-La.).
According to USTA, the amendment would ban or severely restrict TSA from using biometric technology, which could result in longer wait times in security screening checkpoint lines and reduce the layers of security afforded by advanced biometric facial matching programs—such as the CAT-2 machines and TSA PreCheck’s Touchless ID partnerships with Delta Air Lines and United Airlines.
“Biometric technology is the future of air traveler screening, and it is supported by the traveling public,” said USTA President & CEO Geoff Freeman. “Misguided efforts to place blanket restrictions on facial technology only succeed in harming security, wasting travelers’ time, and costing millions in taxpayer dollars invested in developing state-of-the-art screening technology. Congress will provoke the ire of millions of travelers if it chooses to hinder innovation, slow the travel process, and reduce security.”
USTA has convened the Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel, which includes members across a variety of agencies and countries, to “recommend policies to increase US competitiveness, improve government focus and coordination on travel issues, and facilitate growth. The commission is expected to report its results in autumn 2024.
Visit ustravel.org for more information.
[04.29.24]
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- Category: Industry News
LANJ Treasurer Barry Trabb of Complete Fleet
Mark your calendar! The Limousine Association of New Jersey (LANJ) is preparing for its largest fundraising event of the year with its annual Dinner Auction. Courtesy of Title Sponsor Complete Fleet Livery Sales, the event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21, at Il Tulipano in Cedar Grove, N.J.
LANJ Executive Director Patricia Nelson
Held each spring, the LANJ Dinner Auction is a favorite event among operators in the tri-state area and beyond, with many affiliate members and guests flying in to take part. The massive auction not only raises money for the organization, but also offers great opportunities for networking and fun. Always successful, the last fundraiser raised more than $30,000 for the association. This year, LANJ is proud to announce that a portion of the auction proceeds will be going to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
While LANJ Treasurer Barry Trabb of Complete Fleet has indicated that numerous great auction items will be available, the association is actively seeking donations from members. Ideal items include sporting event and concert tickets, airline miles, electronics, gift cards, and more.
Dinner and appetizers will be served, and the evening includes an open bar. The cost to attend is $115 for members and $130 for non-members.
Contact LANJ Executive Director Patricia Nelson at patricia.nelson103@gmail.com or 862.213.9869 to reserve your tickets or to donate an item to the auction.
Visit lanj.org for more information.
[04.26.24]
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- Category: Industry News
Newtown, Pa.-based Sterling Limousine & Transportation Services has announced the appointment of Jeff Saperstein as its new sales director.
Sterling Limousine Sales Director Jeff Saperstein
Saperstein brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the transportation industry. In his new role, he will be responsible for developing new business relationships across Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and New York, while also cultivating existing client partnerships. Additionally, he will focus on expanding Sterling’s presence within the school, corporate, and venue markets, leveraging the company's strong family values and 22 plus year history of exceptional service.
“I am incredibly excited to join the Sterling team and contribute to their continued growth and success,” said Saperstein. “This role perfectly aligns with my strengths in networking, relationship building, and giving back to the communities we serve.”
Saperstein's leadership style emphasizes creating a positive and motivating sales culture. He believes in a philosophy of challenging employees to reach their goals while creating a great home/work balance while coaching and developing them to be the best that they can be.
“Jeff’s extensive experience, combined with his dedication to building strong relationships, makes him the perfect fit for this newly created role,” said Sterling Owner Johnny Donohoe. “We are confident that under his leadership, our sales team will achieve new heights, and Sterling will become the number one choice for all transportation needs in the region and beyond.”
Visit sterlinglimoservice.com for more information.
[04.25.24]