Cost management and policy compliance are among the biggest challenges travel managers expect to face in the year ahead, according to the latest survey by Business Travel Show America.

A global poll of 149 corporate travel and procurement professionals, EAs and PAs ¨C including 36 per cent from Europe ¨C revealed a third (33 per cent) are concerned about how to secure better value from suppliers.

Reducing leakage and managing traveller expectations against budget (both identified by 29 per cent of respondents) were also listed among the top challenges anticipated for 2026, along with identifying and implementing the right technology solutions (27 per cent), improving data-driven reporting (23 per cent) and managing the fallout from geopolitical and economic uncertainty (20 per cent). Increasing airline and accommodation costs were also identified as a hurdle for 15 per cent and 13 per cent of travel buyers, respectively.

Additionally, macroeconomics and inflation are expected to have the biggest influence on corporate travel within the next 12 months, according to 26 per cent of survey respondents.

Artificial intelligence and advances in technology and data management are also likely to impact travel programmes (according to 19 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively), along with geopolitical shifts (13 per cent) and legislative changes, including changes in US policy (11 per cent).

Commenting on the findings, BTN Group¡¯s executive vice president Louis Magliaro said: ¡°The emphasis on getting the best value from suppliers suggests buyer-supplier relationships need to extend even further beyond the balance sheet. More than ever, buyers are demanding strategic partnerships that deliver flexibility, reliability, commitment and measurable ROI against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting global economy.¡±

The inaugural Business Travel Show America will take place at Javits Center New York on 15-16 October.