Business and group travel are powerful economic engines—driving revenue, creating jobs and forging connections that fuel innovation and growth.
When business meetings, conventions, trade shows and other major events come to town, they bring high-impact visitor spending—filling hotels, restaurants, shops and energizing local economies in communities nationwide.
Why it matters: Business travelers typically represent just 20% of total travel volume, but they account for up to 60% of lodging and air revenue, making them essential to America’s travel economy.
- In 2024, business travel generated $312 billion in spending, an 85% recovery from 2019 levels.
- Transient business travel—individual, work-related trips—reached $186 billion in 2024 (87% of 2019 levels), though growth has slowed as companies maintain cost constraints.
- Group travel—conventions, trade shows and team events—generated $126 billion in 2024, recovering to 82% of 2019 levels and projected to grow faster than transient travel through 2025 as the desire for face-to-face interactions grows.
But barriers remain. While companies continue to watch costs, logistical friction—like travel delays, outdated infrastructure and visa processing issues—is becoming a more prominent drag on business travel.
Bottom line: Business and group travel lead to stronger relationships, better collaboration and real results. There’s no substitute for face-to-face interactions—and a seamless, efficient travel experience is key to inspiring more business travel and unlocking its full potential to power growth.
See how we can improve the travel experience to drive more business travel.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Nominate and confirm the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Travel & Tourism
