Cvent 2025 Global Travel Managers Report

Centralised sourcing is now the norm, with 91% of travel managers overseeing both business travel and meetings—boosting efficiency and reducing costs

Cvent’s 2025 Global Travel Managers Report shows that 91% of travel managers now oversee both business travel and meetings—a sharp rise from 2017. This shift toward centralised sourcing is driving efficiency and cost savings, especially in Europe. With rising travel costs, technology and sustainability are becoming key priorities.

Key takeaways

• Centralised management: 91% of travel managers now handle both travel and meetings; 83% report cost savings.
• Efficiency first: Operational efficiency is the top driver—53% in Europe cite it as the main benefit.
• In-person still matters: Acquiring new customers is the #1 reason for face-to-face meetings (43%).
• Rising costs: 71% expect travel costs to increase; incentive and internal trips are most likely to be cut.
• Tech tools matter: Visual hotel content strongly influences RFPs; travel sites and sourcing platforms guide decisions.
• Sustainability counts: 32% in Europe say sustainability will shape travel choices through 2026—waste reduction and local food are key.
• Evolving Role: Travel managers are becoming strategic leaders, focusing on tech, transparency, and smarter sourcing.

Get the full report at Cvent