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European travelers are more likely to use rail for business trips, with 38% reporting that they used rail on their last trip. – Image Credit Unsplash+
Despite facing significant economic and geopolitical challenges, business travel in Europe is projected to experience robust growth over the coming years. According to the latest GBTA Business Travel Index Outlook, European business travel spending is expected to reach 389.9 billion euros by 2026, marking an 8.2% increase from 2025. This growth positions Europe as a key player in the global business travel recovery, contributing significantly to worldwide spending.
Projected Growth in Business Travel Spending
The forecast for European business travel spending remains optimistic, with projections indicating continued growth beyond 2026. By 2027, spending is expected to increase to € 414.5 billion, and by 2028, it is anticipated to reach € 441.6 billion. These figures underscore the resilience of the European business travel sector, even amid economic and geopolitical uncertainties. Suzanne Neufang, CEO of GBTA, emphasized the importance of business travel as a catalyst for growth and innovation, highlighting the industry’s commitment to sustainability and enhancing the traveler experience.
Leading Markets in European Business Travel
Western Europe is expected to dominate the European business travel market, accounting for 88% of total spending by 2025. Emerging Europe will represent the remaining 12%. The top six markets—Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands—are projected to collectively account for over 241.5 billion euros in spending. This represents 17.7% of the total global business travel spending estimated for 2025.
Reasons for Business Travel in Europe
The primary reasons for business travel in Europe include seminars, training sessions, conventions, conferences, and internal company meetings. On average, a business trip in Europe costs € 850.7, with lodging being the largest expense, followed by food and beverages, and air travel. Notably, business travelers in the UK spend the most per trip, averaging 1,305 euros, while Poland and Sweden report the lowest average spend per trip.
Changing Expectations and Preferences of European Business Travellers
European business travelers continue to see significant value in their travels, with 83% agreeing that it is essential for achieving business objectives. A majority, 77%, report traveling the same or more in 2025 compared to 2019, with the average overnight business trip lasting 3.1 nights. However, European travelers are less inclined to combine business and personal travel compared to their counterparts in other regions.
When it comes to technology, only 40% of European business travelers are comfortable using AI to book their trips, the lowest percentage globally. Loyalty programs play a crucial role in their decision-making process, with 81% considering them important when choosing transportation and lodging options. Additionally, European travelers are more likely to use rail for business trips, with 38% reporting that they used rail on their last trip.
Conclusion
The future of European business travel looks promising, with substantial growth projected over the next few years. Despite economic and geopolitical challenges, the sector is poised to thrive, driven by a commitment to sustainability and an enhanced traveler experience. As European companies continue to invest in business travel, the region is poised to play a pivotal role in the global business travel landscape.
