Visitors will be able to listen to speakers and attend conferences, awards and training sessions. There will also be opportunities to network with buyers and suppliers in the business travel industry.
The highlight of the week will be the Business Travel Show, held February 10-12 in Earl's Court, which will be in its 15th year.
At the show up to 250 companies will be showcasing their latest products, initiatives, packages and technology to over 7,000 business travel buyers, bookers and managers.
Suppliers who have already confirmed their attendance include HRG, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Wyndham Hotels, StarCite, Premier Travel Inn, Concur and airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways and Air New Zealand.
The show will feature training workshops specifically designed for small and medium companies. David Chapple, the event director, said: ”There”ll be a pick and mix seminar for SMEs like a ”how to” session, such as how to get value on your travel spend, discussions on whether the internet is the best way of booking travel, as well as a beginner”s guide to travel management, which is an old favourite."
Three award ceremonies will also take place during the week. For the 20th year running, Business Traveller will present ”Cellars in the Sky” to the airline serving the best red, white, sparkling and dessert wine in business and first class. Meanwhile the award for Business Travel Innovation will for the fifth year running go to companies who have shown innovation in the air, accommodation and ground transportation sectors. There will also be an award for European Travel Managers, which will be held in Grosvenor House hotel.
Networking opportunities include lunch, drinks and entertainment at the Business Travel Show exhibitor event and the Business Travel Week VIP buyer party, while a private lunch which will give 60 Institute of Travel Management (ITM) members a chance to question a key speaker. There will also be a lunch for European travel managers, which will also include a speaker.
The week will be organised by Centaur and supported by ITM, who will run an advice clinic to give corporate buyers a chance to talk to experienced travel professionals. Centaur is keen to invite third parties to organise their own programmes. Chapple explained: ”The week is about providing buyers and suppliers with choice, with an opportunity to create their own events. I”ve been talking to various airlines and they”re excited about creating events for their own clients.”
These events will take place at various locations in and around London, while the Business Travel Innovation awards, Business Travel Show, conferences, ”Cellars in the Sky” awards and both events with speakers will all be held in Earl”s Court.
For more information, visit businesstravelshow.com [1].