After a slump in the coronavirus years, business trips are back in vogue. According to a global survey by SAP-Concur, 42 percent of business travelers surveyed believe that business trips are important for maintaining customer relationships and establishing new contacts (41 percent). More than a third (38 percent) also stated that business travel is essential for keeping up to date with the latest trends, technologies and advances.
Share of different means of transportation
In 2020, German business travelers used air travel as their main mode of transport for around a third of business trips. Around 22 percent of business trips were made by train (statista.com).
Strikes as a complication
It is therefore not surprising that the recent increase in traffic disruptions due to strikes is becoming an increasing hindrance. According to the Global Business Travel Survey by SAP-Concur, 47 percent of respondents consider short-term delays and transportation cancellations to be a threat to their business trips. A recent VDR survey revealed that over 85 percent of respondents believe that strikes are one of the factors currently having a negative impact on business travel.
But what should you do if a strike gets in the way of an important business trip or makes it more difficult? We provide recommendations.
Our tips
1. If a strike is already underway or looming, it makes sense to look for a transportation option that is not affected.The same applies if a business trip is so important and urgent that you simply have to play it safe. The majority of German business travelers, more than 80 percent, travel within Germany on business. Intercontinental travel accounted for just three percent of business trips in 2022 (statista.com). With these manageable distances, it is easy to find alternatives to flying or taking the train, be it in your own vehicle or with a coach or limousine service.
2. If you want to use air, rail or other public transport despite the risk of a strike, you should inform yourself thoroughly, promptly and closely in advance of your trip. Both before booking and before starting your journey. If there is a threat of a strike with the train or a particular airline, for example, it may make sense to book elsewhere from the outset or to switch to another airline, a private train, long-distance bus provider, etc.
3. If it does happen and you are surprised by a strike en route or on your return journey, you need to rethink quickly. Suddenly, a large number of travelers are fighting for the coveted tickets, plane tickets or rental cars, which will quickly become scarce. Those who arrive too late are left empty-handed. Sometimes the only option is to change your plans completely or stay overnight in a hotel. Not only do you lose a lot of time, you also incur considerable additional costs.
You can save yourself all that stress. With our travel planning in advance and in our well-maintained limousines, vans and chauffeur-driven coaches, you can get anywhere reliably and comfortably - around the clock and regardless of any strikes. We will be happy to advise you.