Breaking Silos and Adopting Modern Solutions for Business Travel

2 min read
Nov 26, 2024
Breaking Silos and Adopting Modern Solutions for Business Travel
3:48

 

Corporate travel solutions, like most technology, are evolving quickly as we approach 2025. Companies are looking for ways to adapt while cutting costs and staying innovative. 

During The Expense Summit, Gijs Swaans, Commercial Lead and Global Sales Manager at AMEX GBT Egencia, shared his expert perspective on how integrated systems and employee-centric tools are transforming travel and expense management. 

For some context, AMEX GBT Egencia is a leading corporate travel management company offering comprehensive tools and services for business travel. From travel booking and itinerary management to expense tracking and reporting, AMEX GBT Egencia simplifies the complexities of corporate travel for organisations of all sizes. 

Why travel integration is crucial in 2025 

Corporate travel is set to rebound even more in 2025, but with tighter budgets and a sharper focus on sustainability.  

As companies strive to align financial goals with ESG commitments, tools like corporate cards, CO2 tracking, and open API integrations are essential. AMEX GBT Egencia’s expertise in simplifying these processes ensures companies can adapt to regulatory changes, reduce complexity, and empower employees with modern travel tools—key components of staying competitive in a globalised market. 

How to leverage modern technology to stay ahead

1. Acknowledge the power of corporate cards

Even in 2024, companies are losing control over employee spending. This control can be regained with easy-to-cancel company payment cards.  
 
Employees want to stop paying out of their own accounts. Employers want to stop losing cards and requesting them back when a person leaves the company. The solution seems simple. 

“Travelers feel trusted when they’re given corporate cards,” explained Gijs. “They no longer need to pay out of pocket, which saves hassle and time. For companies, these cards automate expense reporting, streamlining payment processes and providing reliable data for financial management.” 

By leveraging corporate cards, organisations can build trust while simplifying processes, creating a win-win for employees and finance teams alike. 
 
To find out more about Mobilexpense cards, learn more here. 

2. Break silos with open APIs 

This is perhaps the most important advice you will receive about travel management. Now, more than ever, workflows require integrated systems. A tech-savvy 2024 employee wants to use one platform for everything.  

“The key is connectivity,” remarked Gijs. “Open APIs enable seamless data flows between systems like HR, ERP, and expense tools. Breaking silos and eliminating complexity is critical for efficiency.” 

This insight underlines the importance of collaboration across departments and the role of technology in fostering seamless workflows

Focus on sustainability

As sustainability takes centre stage in corporate strategy, Gijs highlights a significant shift: “We’re moving toward CO2 budgets alongside financial budgets. Companies will increasingly measure employee footprints and adjust policies to align with sustainability goals.” 

AMEX GBT Egencia’s approach demonstrates how modern T&E solutions can align with environmental priorities while maintaining business efficiency. 

Breaking silos, empowering employees, and prioritising sustainability are critical to success in today’s travel management landscape. AMEX GBT Egencia’s expertise is helping companies navigate these challenges with confidence. 

Discover more insights 

Want to explore Gijs’ strategies in greater depth and hear from the other panelists? Watch the full panel discussion from The Expense Summit 2024 for actionable advice on transforming T&E management. 

Mobilexpense and Egencia