Mixing work and play: Hilton lures back eager business travelers

Business trips may seem like a thing of the past, but professionals are eager to get back on the road and book their next trip.

Eighty-seven percent of employees miss business travel, with 37% wanting the opportunity to discuss projects in-person, and 36% looking forward to a return of business conferences, according to a survey by Hilton Hotels.

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“Humans have an innate need to connect with each other,” Mark Weinstein, SVP of Hilton, said in a release. “We know people miss business travel, but even more they miss connecting on a real level with clients, seeing a project up close, networking with colleagues and experiencing a new city.”

Business travel has taken a major hit during the pandemic, and employers are uncertain as to whether it will have a place in a post-pandemic world. Eighty-four percent of CEOs say they plan to slash their business travel budgets going forward, according to Bloomberg.

Hilton is attempting to get travelers back into the groove with new perks and programs designed for both work and play. Workspaces by Hilton provides visitors with private daytime rooms with ergonomic desk chairs, wifi and coffee and tea to imitate the benefits of the physical workplace.

But employees want to stay in a hotel for more than just speedy internet: 47% of business travelers surveyed by Hilton said amenities like a pool or spa were important to their experience, and 62% valued alone time.

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“Post-pandemic, many people are going to be focused on living healthier, even while traveling for business,” Weinstein said. “Given the increased ability to work from anywhere and the emphasis on overall personal wellness and a work-life balance that employees yearn for, business travelers will seek these moments to blend personal and professional trips.”

While employees may not be returning to business travel like they used to, their in-person interactions will become more an intentional and strategic part of their organization's business plan. And a change of scenery can be the boost workers need.

“One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned during the pandemic is that innovation makes a big impact during good times and bad,” Weinstein said. “The pandemic has pushed companies like Hilton to constantly evolve and innovate to meet both the functional and emotional needs of people today and the future.”