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January 24, 2025

GBTA Board of Directors Spotlight


A Look Ahead from GBTA’s Board President: 2025 Will Be Driven by Sustainability, Innovation and Global Collaboration

In this feature series, GBTA’s Board of Directors share their views on topics that matter most to members, the industry, and the way forward for business travel. Today’s guest author is GBTA Board President Mark Cuschieri. 

As we begin 2025, the global business travel industry stands at a pivotal juncture. The past year has shown the resilience and adaptability of our community, and we must continue to navigate a complex landscape marked by market volatility, political uncertainty and ongoing geopolitical tensions. Despite these challenges, GBTA remains steadfast in its commitment to support our members and drive the industry forward.

Our strategy is very clear, focusing on defining the value of "travel for work," advocating for sustainability and ensuring business travel maintains its strategic seat at the corporate table.

One major focus for 2025 is continuing emphasis on sustainability. It’s crucial to keep the momentum for people and planet from 2024, particularly with our Acceleration Challenge. Last year’s progress set a strong foundation for the future, and we must build on these achievements to drive further innovation and positive change in the industry.

We’re also committed to expanding member value, continuing our globalization efforts and investing in our resources. In 2024 our Daily News Brief boasted nearly 90,000 subscribers, a testament to the value and necessity of staying informed in our industry. Additionally, 67% of our active members logged onto our members-only online Hub, which highlights the importance of our resources and support.

Our volunteers continue to be the heart of GBTA. As we approach the Board elections, it’s essential to continue adding diversity, as different perspectives are vital for fostering innovation and addressing the complex challenges our industry faces. We encourage all eligible members to participate in the elections and contribute to shaping the future of GBTA.

As this is my last year as Board President, I’m committed to continue to support our amazing GBTA team. It’s been an honour to serve this incredible community, and I look forward to making more connections through our Chapters and regional conferences in Canada and APAC. These events provide invaluable opportunities for networking and learning.

As we face the opportunities and challenges of 2025, collaboration within the industry will be key. Our worldwide members will continue to seek our guidance, and we are solidly positioned to help. I remain confident in our ability to deliver value for all members and position GBTA for long-term, sustainable growth.

Let's embrace the opportunities ahead and work together to shape the future of business travel.

AVIATION

Thai Authority Grants Airlines More Powers to Deny Boarding to Passengers (NATION THAILAND)

More Corporates Soaring into Asia on Business Class (MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS)

Low-Cost Airline Bans 'Inappropriate' Tattoos and Clothing (MSN)

SUSTAINABILITY

South Korean Oil Refiners to Jointly Build SAF Plant (THE KOREA ECONOMIC DAILY)

Boeing Advances SAF Production (HYDROCARBON ENGINEERING)

Why Firms Should Embed Carbon Pricing into Business Travel (SUSTAINABILITY MAGAZINE)

OTHER SECTORS

Trump Travel Ban 2.0? What to Expect (SKIFT)

Big Tech Cracks the Meetings & Events Market (BTN)

Australia Boosts Business Travel Sector with GBTA’s New Advisory Initiative (TRAVEL AND TOUR WORLD, GBTA FEATURED)

74% of Travelers Rely on Digital Wallets for Trips (PYMNTS)

Industry Spotlight


GBTA Professional Development
Grow Your Skills and Your Career. Save Your Seat Today.

Advanced Principles of Business Travel Management
March 6, March 13, March 20, March 27 2025

This course with Sandy Moring - MCBT will equip you with strategies and techniques to effectively manage travel policy compliance, evolve your travel risk management, strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and so much more!

Additionally, the course serves as a great preparation and study tool for those interested in advancing their career and obtain a Global Travel Professional (GTP) certification.

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Resources


Crisis24 Intelligence Brief

Australia - Australia Day protests and celebrations to take place nationwide Jan. 26. Increased security, localized disruptions likely.

Ireland and United Kingdom - Storm Eowyn to bring severe weather across Ireland and the UK through at least Jan. 27. Flooding, transport, and utility disruptions likely.

Italy - Unionized public transport personnel to conduct 24-hour strike in Milan, Italy, Jan. 31. Tram, bus, and metro disruptions likely.

Thailand - Heavy rainfall forecast across southern Thailand through at least Jan. 28. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.

More Information

Upcoming Events

Global Leadership Professional (GLP) Program
February 24

GBTA Canada Conference 2025 Toronto
April 28 - 30

GBTA APAC Conference 2025 Singapore
May 27-28

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Careful, careful. Check your suitcase before you pack so you don’t inadvertently pack a weapon or ammunition. You can land in serious trouble in certain countries.

Always triple check!

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