Latest news with #businesstravel
Skift
a day ago
- Business
- Skift
Amex GBT-CWT Merger Cleared, Will Create Business Travel Giant Twice the Size of Nearest Rival
Soon it will be Amex GBT-CWT — and then everyone else. But tech-advanced companies can potentially make inroads as the merger partners get distracted with managing a huge integration. The U.S. Department of Justice has dropped its lawsuit challenging the merger of American Express Global Business Travel and CWT, clearing the way for the formation of a business travel giant twice the size of the nearest competitor, BCD Travel. Amex GBT (#1 in the space) and CWT (#4) had a combined $45.5 billion in sales in 2024, according to the Travel Weekly. BCD (#2) had $23 billion. The DOJ sued to block the merger just days before the end of the Biden administration. In March, the UK Competition and Markets Authority approved the merger, noting that CWT had become a weakened competitor and other travel management companies could provide competition to the combined business. The merger is now expected to close in the third quarter. DOJ Lawsuit Challenged the Deal In its earlier response to the January 10, 2025 DOJ lawsuit, Amex GBT strongly disputed the allegations, calling the lawsuit a 'blatantly politicized effort.' The company argued that the DOJ's concerns were outdated and overlooked significant changes to the business travel market since the pandemic. The DOJ had sued to stop the proposed $570 million merger, citing antitrust concerns that the deal would reduce options for large corporate travel customers, leading to higher prices, fewer choices, and diminished innovation. The DOJ contended that this reduction in competition would stifle innovation and make it harder for businesses to negotiate favorable terms for travel management services. Amex GBT at the time pointed to the rise of technology-led travel agencies like Navan, Kayak for Business, and Spotnana, as well as increased competition from traditional corporate travel agencies such as BCD, FCM, and Direct Travel. The company also emphasized that CWT had been weakened by bankruptcy and recapitalization in recent years. Backers and Critics 'We recognize the regulatory approval process has created uncertainty for CWT customers and employees,' said Amex GBT CEO Paul Abbott in a statement. 'We're excited to close the transaction and welcome them to Amex GBT. Together, we will offer customers unrivaled choice, value, and experience.' CWT CEO Patric Anderson said the company's focus is now on closing the deal and integrating with Amex GBT. At least one other travel management company wasn't bullish on the deal. 'The move reinforces an oligopolistic market structure at a time when the real value offered by independent TMCs shouldn't be overlooked,' said Andrea Caulfield-Smith, managing director global business travel at Advantage Travel Partnership, in a statement. 'Independent TMCs can offer a consultative approach to deliver a personalised and tailored service offering to their customers, something which remains competitive across the travel ecosystem.'
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Travel + Leisure
2 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
I Mostly Travel for Work—These 15 Amazon Stylish, Lightweight Summer Clothes Keep Me Cool and Polished
As a food and travel writer, most of my travel is work-related. That's not to say my journeys don't include delicious food and exciting destinations, but chances are, I'll also attend an important work meeting, dinner, or event along the way, even in the most fun of destinations. Of course, that complicates travel, as even if I'm headed to a resort or a vineyard, I have to do so with business-appropriate attire in mind—and during the summer months, when travel is hot and sweaty, these professional clothes also need to leave me feeling cool and comfortable. That's a lot to ask of a lightweight dress or romper, and the key aspect for me has long been finding a few great staple pieces that can play several roles at once. Think: lightweight, hot-weather friendly clothing that can easily transition to various roles each trip, like a flowy dress that works from day to night or a matching set that can be worn together or as separate pieces. Versatility is the name of the game on work trips; I want to be prepared for wherever the itinerary may take me, but in a way that is as streamlined as possible. These business casual clothes are perfect for any type of trip, and they'll keep you cool and comfortable all summer. This short-sleeved summer blouse checks all the boxes: it's comfortable, lightweight, and casual, but it is so easy to dress up when the occasion merits, making it a great transitional piece for summer business travel. "Super cute and comfortable. You can take it from the office to dinner. Breathable and lightweight," shared an Amazon five-star reviewer. This sleeveless vest and pants set is an absolute steal, on sale for just $34 for both pieces. But aside from being cozy and breathable, it's a perfect set for a meeting or lunch on a hot summer day with it flowy yet polished look. "It was perfect for a recent conference with business casual have a zip front, elastic waist in back, and pockets, which are always great!" according to an Amazon five-star review. With an elegant neck and ruching at the waist, this sleeveless one-piece jumpsuit is available in a range of colors, like a dusty pink, royal blue, and versatile beige. Wear it to segue from a meeting or business lunch into a night out. "I'm always on the lookout for outfits that are stylish, professional, and comfortable enough to wear all day…This jumpsuit checks all the boxes,' said an Amazon five-star reviewer. 'The mock neck adds a touch of sophistication, while the wide-leg pants give it that breezy, effortless feel. And yes—it has pockets!' Another great spin on a one-piece outfit that transitions well from a business lunch to exploration, this under-$40 midi dress has a round neck short-sleeve top with belt-tie waist and flowing skirt that is breathable and breezy. You'll stay cool, even on the most intense of summer days. 'I purchased it right before going on a business trip to Europe, and it was perfect,' said a five-star customer. 'I like how the top and bottom are connected, so you don't have to worry about separate items. It's a very light material and flows nicely.' This cute button-down sleeveless dress screams Jackie O and is a way of looking poised and polished while still feeling cool and comfortable. 'Super cute dress that looks great for work!' shared a five-star Amazon review. Made of soft viscose material, it'll feel good on even for a long day, and the sleeveless design and slightly-flowy skirt will help beat the heat. This casual, fun jumpsuit couldn't be easier to pack and is lightweight and comfortable to wear. With a loose fit and side pockets, it'll feel cool and breezy, and the patterns keep it feeling stylish, even if wearing it feels as comfortable as your favorite pair of pajamas. Amazon shoppers love the 'great fit,' saying, 'I got amazing compliments on this! Great for travel, conferences, and looks great with the jacket to dress it up!' Cute palazzo-style high-waisted wide-legged pants that can play so many roles when traveling. These would be a dream for a travel day and can adapt well with a button-down vest (more on that soon!) for a lunch meeting, but would also work beautifully over a swimsuit at the pool later in the day. Amazon shoppers love the versatility, saying, 'Love these easy breezy pants. I wore these on a five-hour flight. They are loose and comfy, with pockets, [and] they can be dressed up or down.' A sleeveless button-down helps you stay crisp and cool while feeling put-together and professional during summer business travel. This top comes in lots of shades, so it's a great excuse to stock up while it's just $20. 'Perfect for the summer to dress up or dress down slacks or shorts,' said one shopper. 'Comfortable and gives a neat, polished look to outfits. Would be good under a blazer for work.' A button-down vest can dress up even jeans or a casual sundress to feel much more business-ready, all while staying cool and collected. Amazon shoppers call this sleeveless vest a 'great style and perfect fit,' saying, 'I wore it on an 80-degree day. I wasn't too hot and the vest still gave the 'business' look while I wore a tank top [underneath].' This breezy, flowy, smocked dress screams summer picnic but is still sophisticated enough to wear when having drinks with a client or colleague. Amazon shoppers say it is flattering and wrinkle-resistant, making it perfect to pack in your suitcase without worrying about needing an iron or steamer. 'This is a really beautiful dress,' one shopper wrote. 'The material is mid-weight and comfortable and wrinkle-resistant, which makes this a great dress for travel.' This linen-blend sleeveless suit set is the perfect travel businesswear that maintains a sophisticated look even when it's unbearably hot outside, thanks to its linen blend material. Amazon shoppers say it's 'comfy, elegant, and versatile,' making it 'perfect for work or a casual meeting.' The bonus part is that you can mix and match these pieces with the rest of your travel wardrobe for even more versatility. A great buy on a wardrobe staple at just $21, this whimsical chiffon-style blouse with a pleated neckline and cap sleeves is easy to dress up with a skirt or slacks or down with jeans or shorts. Amazon shoppers love this top for business travel, and say they get so many compliments. 'I love these shirts for work and business travel,' one shopper wrote. 'They fold very small, and it is easy to get the wrinkles out!' There are dozens of colors available, so you can stock up on a few to wear throughout your trip. This two-piece tracksuit set is comfortable enough to fly or sleep in, but throw a blazer or button-down vest over it, and it's ready for an important Zoom call while you're busy traveling. 'The material is soft, lightweight, and perfect for warm weather. I love how cute and stylish it looks without sacrificing comfort,' reads one Amazon five-star review. You can also pair the top with a pair of slacks for a business trip, and wear the shorts for lounging around your hotel room. Casual and cool, this collared button-down V-neck dress exudes summer chill and versatility. Amazon shoppers love this dress because it's a great 'wear anywhere' look. 'I really like the oversized cut and relaxed fit of this dress,' wrote one shopper. 'It gives off a 'polished,' carefree look while being extremely comfortable, and it is the perfect length for any and all occasions.' The flowy fit makes it a summer staple while the touch of elastane in the fabric gives it a little bit of comfortable stretch. Lightweight, soft, and comfortable for planes or long days of activity, this sleeveless jumpsuit is easy to wear casually to hang at the beach but also to dress up for a work meeting while on the road. Amazon shoppers 'love' this jumpsuit, noting that it's easy to 'dress it up with a blazer, or wear it as is,' and 'it's a versatile piece for travel and every occasion.' The wide legs will keep you cool, and it's plenty stretchy for staying comfortable all day. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Gulf Business
18-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Flying Etihad? Know about these latest developments
Image credit: Etihad Airways Etihad Airways has unveiled a significant digital upgrade to its corporate travel offering with the launch of the Etihad for Business portal. This milestone in the airline's digital transformation coincides with the launch of its inaugural flight to Al Alamein, Egypt, reinforcing Etihad's commitment to both corporate and leisure travelers. Read- The newly launched portal enables corporate clients to manage their entire travel programme through a single, user-friendly digital interface, a Businesses can now monitor travel spend, access contract details, and redeem credits for travel-related benefits in real time. 'We've created a platform that puts control directly in our corporate partners' hands,' said Javier Alija, Vice President of Global Sales & Distribution at Etihad Airways. 'Companies can now manage everything from performance tracking to benefit redemptions through one simple interface.' The Etihad for Business programme rewards companies with credits based on travel volume. These credits can be redeemed for a variety of perks including seat upgrades, lounge access, priority check-in, and ground transportation services—designed to enhance the travel experience for corporate employees. Key features offer flexibility and insights The platform is built to streamline business travel operations and reduce administrative burdens. Among its key features: Real-time performance tracking Transparent tiering requirements Automated reporting tools Contract management capabilities Self-service benefit redemptions Dedicated online support and account services Companies of all sizes can access different levels of service based on their travel needs, while advanced analytics and expanded features are expected in future updates. 'Business travel management should be straightforward, not complicated,' Alija added. 'Our portal delivers exactly that—a user-friendly experience that helps companies maximise the value of their travel programmes.' Etihad adds Al Alamein as seasonal summer destination In parallel with its digital rollout, 'The launch of Al Alamein reflects our strategic focus on expanding Etihad's network to serve high-demand seasonal routes,' said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. 'As leisure travel continues to grow, destinations like Al Alamein offer tremendous appeal for our guests seeking premium summer experiences.' The dual developments showcase Etihad's evolving strategy—investing in both digital transformation and network growth to serve a broader customer base. With its enhanced business travel tools and growing list of leisure destinations, Etihad continues to position itself as a forward-thinking global airline.
Skift
17-07-2025
- Business
- Skift
Biggest Aviation Markets – and the Sectors Driving the Most Growth
The global airline sector is in a growth phase, with annual revenue on pace to reach $1 trillion, driven by strong leisure demand and the significant rebound of business travel. Skift Research's latest deep dive into the global airline sector reveals an acceleration of several key trends: Leisure travel accounts for over half of global airline revenue, business travel is nearing pre-pandemic highs, and the shift toward premium cabins has picked up. Online channels dominate ticket sales, while regional trends point to the Americas leading in overall revenue and Asia-Pacific gaining fast — all detailed in Global Airline Sector Market Estimates 2025. Global revenue is heading toward the $1 trillion mark – we project $949 billion by 2026. The Americas Leads, Asia-Pacific Is on the Rise Of all the major regions,
Zawya
10-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi launches new direct flights to Sialkot in Pakistan
SHARJAH: Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, the capital's first low-cost carrier, today announced the launch of a new service connecting Zayed International Airport and Sialkot International Airport in Pakistan. Starting July 17, the new route will operate three times a week, offering passengers a direct and affordable travel between Abu Dhabi and Sialkot, expanding the carrier's growing network in Pakistan beyond its existing flights to Faisalabad and Multan. Schedule to Sialkot International Airport, effective July 17, 2025 (all times local). Sialkot, one of Pakistan's key industrial and export hubs, is a city and capital of Sialkot District located in the north-east of the Punjab province in Pakistan at the foot of Kashmir hills near the Chenab River. This service is tailored to meet the increasing demand from business travellers and the large expatriate community connecting the two regions.
