Corporate is strong, with FCM Travel securing a pipeline of account wins totalling almost AUD$400 million, Asia returning to modest profitability, and the business globally delivering further productivity gains. First-quarter total transaction value (TTV) increased by nearly seven per cent.

Leisure TTV is also growing at a healthy rate. Still, the temporary travel pattern shifts that emerged late last year continue to impact year-on-year profit comparisons, which is in line with our expectations. We are, however, starting to see signs of recovery, which is a positive signal ahead of our peak second-half trading periods.

For the full year, FCTG is targeting an underlying profit before tax of AUD$305 million–AUD$340 million, a 5.5%–17.6% uplift on FY25.

Comments by Chris Galanty, Global Corporate CEO, Flight Centre Travel Group:

“Global business travel continues to face challenges, from airline disruptions to geopolitical tensions, including the USA government shutdown. In addition, Africa continues to face persistent inflationary pressures, inconsistent exchange rates, rising visa costs and escalating global uncertainty. It is at times like this that FCTG’s corporate brands FCM Travel and Corporate Traveller demonstrate the vital nature of expert travel management for businesses.

“Having a trusted travel management company spearheaded by people and tech has never been more crucial. Our corporate brands are not just booking services – they’re essential risk management partners always providing real-time support and strategic guidance.

“Our customers have benefited from immediate assistance during disruptions, with dedicated consultants proactively managing itinerary changes and providing duty-of-care services that have proven invaluable.

“Corporate Traveller thrives with its dedicated consultant model, particularly resonating with small and medium enterprises seeking personalised service alongside technological efficiency. 

“FCM Travel continues to strengthen its position serving larger organisations with complex travel needs, expanding its client base by securing significant new accounts throughout the year. 

“The business is leveraging its proprietary technology suite to deliver customised solutions to sophisticated travel programmes, while making substantial progress with New Distribution Capability implementation.

“We’re at the forefront of implementing artificial intelligence tech that enhances service delivery while improving operational efficiency. AI now intelligently routes inbound requests to the appropriate consultants, improving response times and saving thousands of consultant hours. 

“Business travel remains essential to prosperity, even in uncertain times. Our role is to ensure that when our customers’ people need to travel – whether to close deals, grow relationships, or drive innovation – they can with confidence knowing they have expert support at every stage.”

***Ends***

For more information about FCM Travel, or to interview FCM Travel General Manager South Africa, Bonnie Smith, call Lori Cohen on 079 641 4965 or email lori@bigambitions.co.za.

FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA

Flight Centre Travel Group (Pty) Ltd (“FCTG”) in South Africa is wholly owned by Flight Centre Travel Group Limited – an Australian based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with a market cap of AU$3.34 Billion and a current share price of AU$16.75 as of 30 April 2021. FCTG has two level 1 B-BBEE subsidiaries: FCTG Corporate and FCM Travel Solutions. FCTG consists of two leading brands: Flight Centre and Corporate Traveller. FCTG has been recognized as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in South Africa for 14 consecutive years.