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# Increased Expectations for Business Travel Among UK SMBs

Recent research conducted by Trainline Partner Solutions, the B2B division of Trainline, has unveiled a significant trend among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the UK. Notably, over three-quarters, specifically **76%**, of these businesses anticipate an increase in domestic travel volumes, while **79%** expect their business travel budgets to rise in 2025, as based on insights from business travel decision-makers.

## Growth in Business Travel Volumes

The findings indicate a prevailing upward trajectory concerning business travel amongst UK SMBs. A remarkable **74%** of those surveyed reported experiencing heightened business travel volumes in **2024** compared to the previous year, **2023**. This uptick signifies a strong post-pandemic recovery and a renewed emphasis on the importance of in-person engagements and collaborative opportunities, which are often enhanced through business travel.

## Sustainability in Corporate Travel Policies

In tandem with this growth in travel, SMB decision-makers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability within their corporate travel frameworks. An encouraging **33%** identified the expanded use of rail services as a pivotal strategy for mitigating their carbon footprints. The commitment to sustainability not only reflects a corporate responsibility ethos but also aligns with broader global efforts to address climate change.

### Significant Targets for Emission Reductions

Most notably, an impressive **87%** of UK SMBs have established specific targets aimed at reducing emissions stemming from their business travel activities. This is a remarkable increase from just **52%** who had set similar targets in Trainline Partner Solutions’ earlier survey in January 2024. This shift indicates a growing recognition of the role that sustainable practices play in not only enhancing corporate reputation but also in fulfilling regulatory and community expectations.

## Financial Support for Sustainable Travel

A substantial **85%** of the businesses surveyed reported having established clear policies and financial backing to encourage the use of lower-carbon travel options. This proactive approach signifies an industry trend where financial resources are aligned with sustainability goals, making it easier for employees to opt for greener travel modes without financial penalties.

### Impact of Regulatory Environment

While UK SMBs currently do not face mandatory regulations similar to the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), many are feeling the ripple effects of an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. This emerging environment is impacting corporate strategies significantly, with **34%** of those organizations that have enacted policies and financial plans for lower-carbon travel citing it as their primary motivator.

## Importance of Emission Insights

Interestingly, nearly **89%** of those who partner with a Travel Management Company (TMC) consider emissions insights from their TMC to be essential for effectively managing their business travel emissions. This highlights the crucial role that data and analytics play in informing travel decisions and promoting sustainable practices.

## Insights from Trainline Partner Solutions

**Andrew Cruttenden**, the general manager at Trainline Partner Solutions, remarked on the encouraging signs for the business travel sector. “It’s a great sign for the business travel sector that the UK’s small businesses expect to continue ramping up their business travel volumes and spending in 2025,” he stated. He further emphasized the importance of supporting employees in prioritizing lower-carbon travel choices, particularly train travel, given its sustainability advantages over flying and driving.

### Role of AI legalese decoder

To navigate this evolving landscape of corporate travel, particularly as it relates to sustainability goals and regulatory considerations, companies can leverage tools such as the **AI legalese decoder**. This innovative platform assists businesses in decoding technical legal and regulatory guidelines, making it easier for SMBs to comprehend and implement sustainable travel policies that meet legal expectations. By minimizing misunderstandings and ensuring compliance, the AI legalese decoder can empower organizations to develop more robust travel policies that align with both their sustainability targets and the regulatory environment.

### Conclusion

The current landscape indicates a promising future for business travel among UK SMBs, bolstered by strong growth expectations and a commitment to sustainability. With the assistance of technology, such as that provided by Trainline Partner Solutions and tools like the AI legalese decoder, companies can effectively navigate this exciting yet challenging journey towards sustainable business travel.

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