Five Trends Shaping the Future of Corporate Travel — And What Hoteliers Should Do About It

Travel is stepping into the business limelight

Business travel is back — but it’s not the same as it was before. As we move further into 2025, new patterns in traveler behavior, corporate expectations, and technology are reshaping how we approach corporate demand in hospitality. Based on insights shared by Ryan Mann of McKinsey & Company and recent discussions at HSMAI’s Commercial Futures Forum, here are five key trends to watch — and what they mean for your hotel’s commercial strategy.

1. Meetings Are Back — But They’re Smaller, Smarter, and Spending More

   Yes, business travel is rebounding — U.S. business travel is forecasted to exceed 2019 levels by over 13%. But don’t assume this means more volume. Instead, companies are spending more per attendee, prioritizing quality over quantity. That translates to opportunities for hotels that deliver unique, elevated experiences — think upgraded F&B, immersive local activities, and inspiring spaces beyond the typical ballroom.

   
   

   💡 Revenue Tip: Consider premium add-ons for small meeting packages and market your most creative, experience-driven spaces.

   
   

2. The Rise of “Leisure-Minded” Business Travel

   Today’s business traveler isn’t just here for meetings — they’re blending in local exploration, bringing families, and extending trips. While it’s not traditional “bleisure,” the mindset has shifted.

   
   

   💡 Revenue Tip: Offer extended-stay rates, promote weekend add-ons, and partner with local attractions or tourism boards to craft destination-focused offers that appeal to the full travel party.

   
   

3. Direct Folio Billing Is a Differentiator — If You Can Implement It

   Corporate clients are demanding better visibility into spend. Direct folio billing — where hotels bill companies directly for employee stays — offers a seamless experience for clients and saves back-office time. But operationally, it’s complex, especially for properties with legacy systems or franchise limitations.

   
   

   💡 Revenue Tip: If you can solve the tech and compliance challenges, this is a huge opportunity to stand out in the managed travel space.

   
   

4. Continuous Rate Monitoring Raises the Stakes on Rate Integrity

   Corporate travel managers are using software that compares negotiated rates against real-time public pricing — and they’re not afraid to rebook elsewhere if they spot a better deal. Transparency is no longer optional.

   
   

   💡 Revenue Tip: Audit your availability frequently to ensure rate integrity. Build stronger internal communication between sales and revenue to avoid missed opportunities or accidental closed-out rates.

   
   

5. Small Meetings Are a Big Opportunity — If You’re Ready

   Small group meetings (9–20 people) are booming as remote teams look to reconnect. But many hotels still treat small groups as an afterthought, siloed from transient business and booked through slow or outdated processes.

   
   

   💡 Revenue Tip: Break down silos. Integrate small group demand into your core revenue strategy and advocate for real-time booking capabilities. A streamlined process can help convert interest into bookings before it walks out the door.

   
   

Final Thoughts

The future of corporate travel demands more agility, integration, and creativity from hotel commercial teams. As these trends evolve, revenue leaders who stay ahead — not just with data, but with smart segmentation, cross-functional alignment, and a guest-first mindset — will capture the lion’s share of new demand.

👉 Want help optimizing your commercial strategy to align with these trends?

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