JOHANNESBURG – Imagine landing in a new city for work. What’s your go-to move for getting around? If you’re like most business travellers, you might reach for a ride-sharing app. A GBTA report shows that 74% of us use these services at least sometimes, with over a third making it a regular habit. It’s easy to see why – they’re convenient and feel familiar, even when everything else around you is new.
But as anyone travelling for work knows, ride-sharing isn’t always smooth sailing. Sometimes, you’re left tapping your foot on a quiet street corner, watching the minutes tick by before a big meeting. Or maybe you’ve found yourself explaining to your finance team why your ride across town cost three times more than usual (surge pricing, anyone?).
Safety is another thing that’s often on our minds. A study by a global TMC found that over 40% of business travellers are concerned about personal safety when using ride-sharing services. This worry tends to be higher among women travellers and in specific international locations where you might not know the local dos and don’ts.
These are reasons pre-booked ground transport is gaining traction in corporate travel, says Jaco Brits, FCM’s Head of Account Management. He adds: “Many companies haven’t fully integrated ground transport into their travel programmes. There’s an opportunity here for better management and cost savings.”
Pre-booking rides offers several features. It provides consistency across different locations. You know what to expect, whether you’re in London or Lima. It’s also typically subject to vetting processes for drivers and vehicles, adhering to standards set by corporate clients.
For business travellers, this can mean increased productivity. Imagine stepping off a long-haul flight and seeing your driver waiting with your name on a sign. No app-wrangling or trying to explain your destination in a language you don’t speak. You can use that time to prep for your meeting or just catch your breath.
On the company side, travel managers get a clearer picture of what’s being spent on ground transport. It’s easier to stay on budget and make sure everyone’s following the rules (and staying safe) when you know how they’re getting around.
The future of business travel involves offering options to meet diverse needs, says Brits, explaining that this is the motivation for FCM partnering with Talixo, a global ground transportation platform. Brits elaborates on the partnership: “We chose Talixo for several reasons. Their extensive network covers over 1,100 cities in 130 countries, aligning with our global client base. Their technology integration capabilities allow booking within our existing systems, enhancing the user experience for travellers and travel managers.”
The FCM-Talixo partnership offers pre-booked transfers that integrate into a traveller’s itinerary. Ground transport can be booked with flights and hotels, creating an end-to-end travel experience. The system allows for changes and 24/7 support, addressing flexibility in business travel.
Sustainability was a factor in the partnership. Brits explains, “Many of our corporate clients are focused on reducing their carbon footprint. Talixo offers eco-friendly vehicle options and reports emissions, helping our clients meet their sustainability goals.”
What’s clear is travellers love options. Sometimes, we want the ease of a pre-booked car; other times, we prefer the flexibility of ride-sharing or the affordability of public transport. Brits says the challenge for travel management companies (TMCs) is to provide this variety while still keeping things manageable for the companies they serve.
Brits sums it up nicely: “Business travel is changing, and ground transport is part of that. We’re moving towards more flexible, integrated solutions. It’s not just about having more choices – it’s about making ground transport work better for travellers and businesses. Whether you’re concerned about safety, efficiency, costs, or even reducing your carbon footprint, having the right ground transport strategy can make a big difference.”
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For more information about FCM Travel, or to interview FCM Travel General Manager South Africa, Bonnie Smith, call Dorine Reinstein on 083 278 8994 or email dorine@bigambitions.co.za.
About FCM Travel:
FCM Travel, the flagship corporate travel brand at Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), is the business travel partner of choice for large national, multinational and global corporations. We are an award-winning global corporate travel management company ranking as one of the top five by size around the world. We operate a global network which spans more than 100 countries, employing over 6000 people.
FCM are transforming the business of travel through our empowered and accountable people who deliver 24/7 service and are available either online or offline. Leveraging FCM’s negotiating strength and supplier relationships in conjunction with our tailored business travel programs, our expertise delivers more for our clients where it matters most to them.
Visit us at www.fcmtravel.co.za
Issued by: Big Ambitions
Contact: Dorine Reinstein
Tel: +27 83 278 8994
Email: Dorine@bigambitions.co.za
