The UK business travel market is reporting an increase in bookings and Clarendon has seen a rise in demand for its serviced apartments across the capital. We map where the business community is coming to in London.
With Christmas a couple of weeks away there’s more good news for the business travel market as we prepare to close the door on 2013. A new survey by GTMC has reported that business travel transactions are up 5%. Business travel itself has risen 13%.
The figures show increased confidence in the business travel sector as firms are heading back on the road. During the third quarter of 2013 the survey reveals that air bookings have increased by 8%, hotel and accommodation is up by 17%, rail by 16% and car rental by 13%. Total transactions for the penultimate quarter of the year rose from 3.8 million in 2012 to 4.3 million in 2013.
The figures provide further proof that the economy is returning to growth. Business travel rates took a nose dive during the recession as travel budgets were decreased and firms found it more difficult to win any new business. The indication is that as commentators and analysts have identified a return to growth and an increase in profits then UK PLC is getting back on the road. It represents a desire to win new contracts, to meet new clients and be involved in new projects around the country.
As a provider of medium let and extended stay apartments in London, Clarendon serviced apartments is well placed to be able to track business travel in the capital. Most of the travellers we accommodate are looking for somewhere to stay either while relocating, on contract or during a business deal. We have identified a rise in business travel over the past few months with both booking and enquiries increasing. The rise in demand has been targeted in the West End, Holborn and Goodge Street. The City and Canary Wharf remain very popular but clearly business travellers are looking to diversify where they stay. This is probably due to the new businesses, especially in the technology sector moving into the area. A growing industry there are many firms from around the UK and Europe wanting to meet these firms to commission them for work and their expertise. The West End also contains two of the best elements of London; great transport connections and attractions. With close proximity to the capital’s transport networks, Clarendon’s serviced apartments in the West End make it easy to get anywhere in London. They are also in the postcode of some of London’s top theatres, restaurants and tourist attractions ensuring visitors get the best of both worlds by being able to travel to the office easily as well as enjoying the lifestyle and leisure on offer in the capital.
Clarendon has also seeing a rise in demand for medium let accommodation in London’s suburbs, like Richmond and Kew. Business travellers it seems are trying to ensure they get more of a work life balance and don’t just stay close to the office.
A reported increase in business travel this year is backed up by Clarendon’s own experience which suggests not only has business travel increased but travellers are looking to get more of a balance between lifestyle attractions as well as being close to the office, which is shifting there they are looking to stay.
To find the right accommodation for your business trip use Clarendon’s virtual tours and guest reviews