Dave

Westin and goop launch sleep training series to support business travellers

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Westin Hotels & Resorts has partnered with Gwyneth Paltrow’s lifestyle brand goop to launch a three-part video series, “Sleep Training for Grown-Ups,” aimed at helping travellers improve their sleep quality both at home and on the road.

For UK-based business travellers, maintaining optimal sleep while navigating different time zones and demanding schedules is crucial. This initiative offers practical, science-backed strategies to enhance rest, potentially improving productivity and overall well-being during business trips.

The series features Gwyneth Paltrow alongside sleep physician Dr. Cheri D. Mah, exploring how daily routines impact sleep and overall health. It provides insights into establishing better sleep, dietary, and exercise habits, essential for those balancing busy lifestyles. In conjunction, Westin has introduced a ‘Sleep Shop’ featuring its next-generation Heavenly® Bed, reinforcing its commitment to delivering restorative sleep experiences.

Peggy Roe Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer of Marriott International said,

For over 25 years, Westin has redefined sleep while traveling, starting with our groundbreaking Heavenly Bed. At Westin, delivering a truly restorative night’s sleep is a commitment – our north star. That’s why we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of comfort on the road.

Paul Baker, Sales Director at Global Travel Management, commented,

Initiatives like this are invaluable for our clients. Quality sleep is fundamental to performance, and resources that support rest can make a significant difference in the success of business travel.

The collaboration aligns with Westin’s Six Pillars of Well-Being, emphasizing the importance of sleep in overall wellness. By integrating expert advice and innovative products, the partnership aims to equip travellers with tools to prioritise rest amidst their busy schedules.

You can view the series, here.

For more information on how Westin’s range of properties, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Manchester to Dubai route gets Emirates’ newest A380 with Premium Economy

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Emirates will introduce its latest Airbus A380 aircraft, featuring the airline’s newest cabins including Premium Economy, on flights to Manchester from 6 June and to Milan from 1 July.

For UK-based business travellers, the addition of Premium Economy on the Manchester-Dubai route significantly enhances comfort and choice. With nearly 5,000 Premium Economy seats per week across Emirates’ UK routes, travellers can now enjoy a higher standard of service and space, ideal for working or relaxing on long-haul flights to key business destinations across Asia and Australasia.

The Manchester route joins four daily retrofitted A380 flights to London Heathrow and a Premium Economy-equipped Emirates A350 service to Edinburgh. The upgraded Boeing 777 scheduled to operate from London Stansted from May further underlines Emirates’ investment in high-quality business travel experiences. From July, travellers from Manchester and Milan will enjoy the enhanced four-class A380 cabin on onward journeys to cities including Singapore, Sydney, Osaka, Mumbai and Bangalore.

The Premium Economy cabin on Emirates’ A380 is located at the front of the main deck and features 56 seats in a 2-4-2 layout. Seats are designed with generous pitch and width, alongside thoughtful features such as in-seat charging, a side cocktail table, and an elevated onboard experience that includes bespoke amenities, a curated dining menu and a premium beverage list—highlighted by the Chandon Vintage Brut 2016, exclusively available to Premium Economy passengers.

Explore Emirates A380’s Premium Economy cabin virtually here.

According to Paul Baker, Sales Director at Global Travel Management,

The introduction of Emirates’ Premium Economy on flights from Manchester is fantastic news for our clients. It offers a superb upgrade in comfort and service for business travellers flying to key international markets, helping them arrive refreshed and ready to work.

For more information on how Emirates’ Premium Economy could benefit your next business trip, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Virgin Atlantic and Joby Aviation to launch zero-emission air taxi service for UK travellers

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Joby Aviation and Virgin Atlantic have announced a partnership that will bring electric air taxi services to the UK, offering zero-emission, short-range journeys to and from key airports, including Heathrow and Manchester.

For UK-based business travellers, this partnership could revolutionise airport transfers and regional travel, providing a fast, sustainable alternative to congested roads and lengthy taxi journeys. With flight times as short as 8 minutes from Heathrow to Canary Wharf or 15 minutes from Manchester to Leeds, this new service could dramatically improve efficiency for time-sensitive travellers.

Virgin Atlantic will support Joby’s UK market launch by marketing the service to its customers, working with regulators, and helping to establish vital airport landing infrastructure. Travellers will be able to book Joby’s air taxis through Virgin Atlantic’s app and website, integrating seamlessly with their existing travel plans.

Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, said:

As a leader in sustainability and with innovation firmly in our DNA, we are delighted to be partnering with Joby to bring short-haul, zero-emission flight to airports and cities throughout the UK. Our strategic partnership combines Joby’s expertise in design, engineering and technology with the power of Virgin Atlantic’s brand and award-winning customer experience. We look forward to working together to bring Joby’s service to the UK and to deliver greater connectivity for our customers.

JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, added:

Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to delighting its customers reflects our experience with Delta and we couldn’t imagine a better partner to work with in the UK. Together, we are committed to delivering faster options for mobility across the country, including for Virgin Atlantic and Delta customers as they head to the airport or move between UK towns and cities.

Joby’s aircraft, designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph, features six tilting propellers for vertical take-off and landing while producing significantly less noise than helicopters. The company has already completed thousands of test flights and expects its service to be competitively priced with premium ground transport options.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented:

For business travellers, time is money. The introduction of electric air taxis could cut travel times dramatically, providing a seamless connection between airports and business hubs. This innovation has the potential to improve efficiency for our customers while supporting sustainability goals.

Joby and Virgin Atlantic’s partnership builds on an existing agreement with Delta Air Lines, which owns a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic. The collaboration aligns with the broader vision of pioneering community-to-airport transport, creating an efficient and environmentally friendly mobility network.

For more information about how this development could impact your business travel plans, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

IHG expands UK hotel portfolio with new openings for business travellers

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IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) is expanding its UK and Ireland portfolio with the signing of eight new hotels, adding more than 900 rooms in key locations including London, Leeds and Reading.

For UK-based business travellers, this expansion brings greater choice across IHG’s premium, lifestyle, and essential hotel brands in strategic locations. With increasing demand for high-quality accommodation in city centres and transport hubs, these new properties offer more options for corporate stays, meeting spaces, and seamless business travel experiences.

The newly signed hotels include brands such as Hotel Indigo in the Luxury & Lifestyle segment, Crowne Plaza in Premium, and IHG’s newest midscale conversion brand, Garner Hotels. Notably, this marks the first UK signings for Garner, which launched 18 months ago as part of IHG’s Essentials collection. The expansion builds on IHG’s already significant presence in the UK and Ireland, where the company operates 362 hotels and has a pipeline of 25 additional properties.

Joanna Kurowska, VP and Managing Director UK & Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented:

2024 was a truly exciting year for growth across our UK&I portfolio, where high demand for our brands led to growth across all our brand segments together with our trusted partners. This growth is powered by our strong enterprise which positions IHG as the first choice for owners as well as the guests we welcome, and colleagues who work with us. From innovating our brands and new hotel technology, to the ever-increasing appeal and growth of our IHG One Rewards loyalty programme, we continuously look to deepen guest experiences and deliver more business to our hotels.

The new hotel openings align with trends in UK hotel investment, which hit a five-year high in 2024, according to Cushman & Wakefield. With fewer new-build developments breaking ground since 2020, conversions have become an increasingly important growth strategy. This is evident in the rapid expansion of IHG’s voco brand, with its UK and Ireland pipeline nearly half the size of its existing footprint, and the Garner brand, whose UK pipeline is three times larger than its current open hotels.

Among the new signings is Hotel Indigo Leeds, a 107-room property in the heart of the city, expected to open in Q2 2025. Business travellers seeking premium accommodation in London can already book stays at the newly opened voco London – Marylebone, offering 93 rooms in the capital. Another key addition is the Crowne Plaza East Midlands Airport, set to open in Q2 2025, featuring 114 rooms, 17 meeting spaces, and a Marco Pierre White restaurant—ideal for corporate stays with convenient airport access.

The expansion also brings growth in midscale conversions, with the opening of Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury in early March, and upcoming Garner hotels in Reading and Nottingham city centres. Additionally, a major project in London will see the conversion of a five-storey office building into the flagship 265-room Holiday Inn Express London – Woolwich, set to open in late 2029.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, said:

This latest expansion from IHG means even more options for business travellers looking for convenient, high-quality accommodation in key UK locations. With new hotels opening in major cities and near transport hubs, our customers will have even greater flexibility when planning their business trips.

IHG’s continued growth in the UK and Ireland highlights its commitment to providing a diverse range of accommodation options for business travellers.

If you would like more information about how these developments can benefit your business travel arrangements, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

From Stress to Success: Why PAs Are Switching to Travel Management Companies

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More and more personal assistants are turning to travel management companies (TMCs) to handle the increasing complexity of business travel.

Juggling multiple travel schedules, dealing with last-minute changes and staying within budget can be overwhelming. PAs are finding that using a TMC not only saves them time but also simplifies the entire process, reducing stress and ensuring seamless travel experiences for their teams.

When personal assistants work with a TMC, they get access to expert help, special corporate travel discounts and easy-to-use booking tools.

Paul Baker: we take the pressure off

Instead of spending hours looking for the best flights, hotels and transport, a TMC provides options that match company policies and budgets. They also offer 24/7 support, meaning that if a flight is delayed, cancelled or an emergency happens, a TMC can quickly solve the problem without the personal assistant having to step in.

Another big advantage is managing costs and travel reports. TMCs get discounted rates from airlines, hotels and car hire companies, helping businesses save money while maintaining quality service. They also provide detailed reports to track travel expenses, find patterns and ensure that trips stay within budget.

TMCs offer several useful services, including:

  • Customised Travel Plans: Personalised schedules, access to flights, hotels, and transport worldwide, and flexible booking options.
  • 24/7 Assistance: Travel experts available at all times to help with delays, cancellations and emergencies.
  • Cost Savings: Special discounted rates with airlines, hotels and car rental companies to reduce travel expenses.
  • Policy Compliance: Automated systems that ensure all bookings follow company travel policies.
  • Expense Tracking: Real-time spending reports, alerts for out-of-policy purchases, and detailed financial breakdowns.
  • VIP and Executive Services: High-end options, priority bookings and seamless travel plans for senior management.
  • Eco-Friendly Travel: Carbon offset programmes and sustainability initiatives that help reduce the environmental impact of travel.

Paul Baker, Sales Director at Global Travel Management, says:

Personal assistants have a lot on their plates, and managing travel can be one of the toughest parts. At Global Travel Management, we take the pressure off by providing expert advice, the best deals and full support whenever it’s needed.

By using a TMC, personal assistants can work more efficiently, cut down on travel costs, and ensure smooth trips for their teams.

If you want to see how a travel management company can help with your business travel needs, contact Global Travel Management today.

Dave

Riyadh Air records “Sound of a New Era” at legendary Abbey Road Studios

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Riyadh Air has unveiled its new sonic brand, “Sound of a New Era,” marking one of the first guest experience touchpoints ahead of its first flight in 2025.

The composition, created by a blend of Saudi and international talent, was recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios and integrates traditional Arabic instruments with modern digital soundscapes to reflect the airline’s vision of blending heritage with innovation.

For UK-based business travellers, this announcement signals Riyadh Air’s commitment to delivering a premium travel experience, with seamless integration of sensory branding across multiple touchpoints. As the airline prepares for its official launch, business travellers flying to and from Saudi Arabia can expect a refined, high-quality journey that extends beyond traditional service elements. The introduction of Riyadh Air’s sonic identity is an early indicator of the attention to detail the airline is investing in, setting the stage for a world-class corporate travel experience.

Osamah Alnuaiser, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Riyadh Air, explained:

At Riyadh Air, we believe that a journey is more than just reaching a destination; it’s about the experience itself. Sound of a New Era isn’t just a sonic brand; it’s the symphony of our brand promise. It’s the sound of Saudi hospitality taking flight, heralding a new era of premium travel, infused with our rich cultural heritage and forward-thinking vision.

The recording at Abbey Road Studios brought together a live orchestra in collaboration with the Saudi National Orchestra and the Music Commission. Thirteen musicians from the Saudi National Orchestra played traditional instruments such as the oud, qanun, and ney, blending them with orchestral arrangements to create a unique, multi-layered sound. This fusion of live instrumentation and digital textures mirrors Riyadh Air’s strategy of combining cultural authenticity with cutting-edge innovation.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the significance of Riyadh Air’s launch:

For UK-based business travellers, the introduction of Riyadh Air represents exciting new options for premium travel to Saudi Arabia and beyond. The airline’s focus on customer experience, attention to detail, and premium service standards suggests that it will be an appealing choice for corporate travellers looking for seamless, high-quality journeys.

Riyadh Air’s sonic identity will be integrated throughout the passenger journey, from boarding music to in-flight entertainment and announcements. By leveraging sound as a storytelling tool, the airline aims to enhance the overall travel experience and create a lasting emotional connection with its passengers.

For more information on how Riyadh Air’s upcoming services could benefit your business travel plans, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

IHG announces first Vignette Collection property in France

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IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of its first Vignette Collection property in France, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s European expansion.

Located in Théoule sur Mer on the French Riviera, the property will combine the charm of the existing Tiara Miramar and Tiara Yaktsa hotels while elevating them under the luxury Vignette Collection brand.

This news is particularly relevant to UK-based business travellers who frequent the French Riviera for conferences, events, and corporate retreats. The hotel will offer a range of amenities ideal for business purposes, including on-site meeting and event spaces, along with leisure facilities such as Michelin-starred dining, spa services, and stunning Riviera views. Its strategic location near walking trails and water sports makes it a prime destination for blending business with relaxation.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented:

This new addition to the Vignette Collection provides UK-based business travellers with an exciting opportunity to enjoy premium hospitality in a globally recognised luxury destination. The combination of world-class facilities and IHG’s trusted reputation ensures that every trip is both productive and memorable.

The Vignette Collection’s arrival in France is part of IHG’s broader strategy to expand its luxury and lifestyle portfolio across Europe, which has already seen significant growth. The property, opening in 2026, will join a rapidly growing family of one-of-a-kind independent hotels. The collaboration with Global Hotels & Resorts underscores IHG’s commitment to developing exceptional hospitality experiences, particularly in iconic locations like the French Riviera.

For more information on this exciting development and how it could enhance your next business trip, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Manchester Airport unveils a first look at its fully transformed Terminal 2

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Manchester Airport has unveiled a fly-through video showcasing the new passenger experience at its fully transformed Terminal 2, part of the airport’s £1.3bn, decade-long transformation programme.

The development is set to benefit UK business travellers significantly, offering enhanced facilities such as a modernised check-in area, state-of-the-art security equipment, and a revamped departure lounge featuring high-end brands like Chanel, a LEGO store and dining options including a JD Wetherspoon pub and the Great Northern Market.

These updates aim to improve efficiency, comfort, and the overall travel experience for passengers travelling for work.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented:

The modernisation of Manchester Airport’s Terminal 2 brings substantial benefits to UK-based business travellers, ensuring they can enjoy a seamless and efficient journey with access to world-class facilities.

The fly-through video offers a first look at the new terminal, starting in the spacious check-in area and moving through the advanced security hall and World Duty Free store. It also highlights the Boutique Mall with premium shopping options, The Avenue with its vibrant dining and retail experiences, and the striking honeycomb light art installation.

This enhanced terminal experience reflects Manchester Airport’s commitment to connecting the North to global destinations.

With the transformation expected to generate 16,400 new jobs and boost the Northern economy by nearly 80% to £6.3bn by 2040, the project underscores the airport’s pivotal role in supporting business travel and trade.

For details on flights to or from Manchester Airport, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

British Airways boosts loyalty rewards following passenger feedback on Tier Points

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British Airways has enhanced its ‘The Club’ loyalty programme, offering UK-based business travellers the opportunity to earn more Tier Points per flight through a new and improved Bonus Tier Point offer. The scheme, which was first updated in December, has now been expanded to provide members with up to 550 additional Tier Points per flight, depending on the travel class.

For business travellers, these changes mean greater flexibility in maintaining or upgrading their status within British Airways’ loyalty programme.

Whether travelling in economy or premium cabins, customers can earn significantly more Tier Points, helping them to access benefits such as lounge access, priority boarding, and extra baggage allowances. The offer applies to bookings made before 31 December 2025 for travel from 1 April 2025, ensuring frequent flyers can take advantage of these benefits throughout the year.

Programme revamp: the new offer increases the additional bonus Tier Points members can earn to between 75 and 550 per flight, dependent on cabin

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the announcement:

This enhancement to British Airways’ loyalty programme is fantastic news for UK-based business travellers. Those who frequently fly for work can now enjoy even greater rewards, making their business travel experience more seamless and enjoyable.

British Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Colm Lacy, reassured members that the airline remains committed to recognising and rewarding frequent flyers. He stated:

Our members have a deep emotional connection with our loyalty scheme, and their status means a lot to them – we’re confident the changes we’ve made fairly reward members for their travel with us.

Alongside the increased Bonus Tier Points, British Airways has also reintroduced earning status through flight sectors, allowing members to qualify for Bronze and Silver tiers by taking 25 and 50 flights respectively. Additionally, spending on British Airways Holidays and contributions to Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) will count towards Tier Points, further expanding the ways in which members can progress through the loyalty programme.

Business travellers looking to maximise their rewards should opt into the Bonus Tier Point offer before travelling.

If you would like to book flights on British Airways, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Emirates enhances business travel experience with new luxury lounge at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport

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Emirates has unveiled its newly relocated and refurbished lounge at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, within the newly opened Satellite 1 Terminal (SAT-1), offering an enhanced ground experience for premium travellers.

The lounge: offers a range of amenities, including shower spas, complimentary Wi-Fi as well as comfortable seating

This development is of particular interest to UK-based business travellers who frequently fly with Emirates, as it provides an upgraded pre-flight experience with greater comfort, convenience, and exclusive amenities. For those travelling between the UK and Bangkok, this refurbishment ensures a seamless and luxurious airport experience before boarding one of Emirates’ six daily flights from the Thai capital.

The $5 million renovation has transformed the lounge into a 1,454-square-metre space, with capacity for 250 guests, comfortably accommodating premium passengers travelling on two simultaneous A380 departures. As the largest international lounge facility beyond Emirates’ home market, the Bangkok lounge offers First and Business Class passengers, as well as Skywards members, an elevated level of service in line with the airline’s renowned premium offerings.

The lounge features elegant furnishings in the signature Emirates style, a refined selection of international and local cuisine, classic Thai desserts, and a well-appointed range of amenities, including shower spas and complimentary Wi-Fi. Located on the fourth floor of SAT-1, it is just a five-minute walk to the boarding gates, ensuring maximum convenience for business travellers on tight schedules.

Fully equipped: The lounge also offers a range of amenities, including shower spas, complimentary Wi-Fi as well as comfortable seating

Emirates is among the first airlines to move into SAT-1, benefiting from the terminal’s state-of-the-art facilities. The airline currently operates 41 lounges worldwide, including seven at Dubai International Airport and 34 across its global network.

This launch coincides with Emirates’ 35th anniversary of operations in Thailand, underscoring the airline’s commitment to the region. Emirates operates five daily flights between Dubai and Bangkok, as well as direct services to Phuket and Hong Kong. The airline provides the highest premium cabin capacity among international carriers flying to and from Bangkok, with over 870 daily First and Business Class seats.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the benefits for business travellers:

This investment by Emirates further enhances the premium travel experience for UK-based business travellers flying to Bangkok. With upgraded facilities, convenient access to departure gates, and world-class amenities, this lounge ensures that business travellers can enjoy a seamless and relaxing start to their journey.

Beyond the lounge, Emirates’ premium services include a Chauffeur-drive service covering a 60-km radius from Suvarnabhumi Airport, exclusive check-in counters, and an exceptional onboard experience, particularly on the Airbus A380, which features a signature Onboard Lounge, private First Class suites, and luxurious Shower Spa.

For more information on how this new lounge and Emirates’ premium services can enhance your next business trip, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.