Incentive travel is gearing up for a robust 2017. More than 79% of the agencies are expected to increase their number of incentive travel in 2017 compared to the last year. While budgets are not expected to increase, 85% of event planners expect to see incentive budgets hold steady in 2017. In addition, around 34% of the travel planners are expecting to see an upswing in the long-haul incentives.
Impact of Brexit and Donald Trump’s election are still considered a major concern despite the positive outlook. Three-quarters (76%) of planners said that the weak pound and fluctuating exchange rates are the biggest threat to the growth of the incentive travel market. political stability and safety is considered as the top-most priority for about 54% of event planners.
What major factors affect incentive travel
- Incentive on the rise
Budgets and group size are largely expected to hold steady for 2017, with clients in some sectors even reporting a small increase. Most of the agencies said that they will organise more incentive travel in 2017.
- It’s not just sales and marketing
The crux result of any incentive travel has to be an improved sales and marketing performance. However, from the last year, incentive travel has also started focusing on non-sales related performance.
- Importance and focus on personalisation
It is essential to build programmes that allow for individual expression, and should have ample scope for individual expression. Regardless of group size, agencies agree that creating a bucket-list moment or unique memory for each and every person in the group, that becomes a story to share with colleagues and brag about on social media is essential.
- Maintaining safety and security
Given the turmoil political conditions at certain places, be careful while choosing incentive destinations. Political stability should be checked before arranging for such group tours. Some agencies also request for LGBT-friendly destinations and where women must not be second-class citizens.
