Navigate travel management company mergers with confidence
Protect your corporate travel program
Your corporate travel management company (TMC) announces a merger. The first thing you’ll think is “what’s the impact of this merger on my travel program?”
This guide has been created to help you navigate this change.
Turn industry uncertainty into a competitive advantage
From travel program stability to the effect on costs and ROI; there’s a lot to consider through a merger.
There’s a real opportunity for proactive travel managers to take control and lead with united company objectives. With preparation, you can maintain and evolve your travel program priorities.
The TMC world might be changing. Your response doesn’t have to be panicked.
What are the risks of a TMC merger?
“How will my program be affected?” is a question a lot of travel program owners ask when a merger is announced. Here are some of the risks:
- Service disruption compounded by staff turnover and possible technology migrations.
- Reduced attention as there is a larger portfolio to look after.
- Pricing pressures which could lead to less favourable terms, reduced negotiating power and a shrinking market.
- Innovation lag while the merging TMCs focus resources elsewhere.
- Change and opportunity costs – every hour spent managing merger-related disruption is not spent on optimisation.
5 strategies to protect your travel program in a TMC merger
| 1. Define your priorities | 2. Assess your current TMC | 3. Ask the right questions | 4. Explore your alternatives | 5. Plan your transition |
| You firstly need to be crystal clear on what matters most to your organisation. | Check alignment, service, technology, costs and your contract. | Internally and to your TMC – ask questions to assess your future. | Once you’ve built a picture of what your future looks like, what’s next? | Whether you plan to stay put or switch TMCs, you need a plan. |
Download report for full guidance
Case studies and resources
Inside the guide, you’ll find helpful guidance and resources including:
- Stories of companies who changed TMC
- Checklist of questions to ask
- Change management advice
Frequently asked questions
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What’s the impact of the merger on my travel program?
The impact of a TMC merger on your travel program can vary but often includes changes in service levels, potential shifts in pricing structures, and changes to technology.
If there is a restructure, you may experience changes in account management or your travel consultants.
A merger can have its benefits too, such as introducing new capabilities or expanding geographic reach. This guide has been created to help you navigate TMC mergers and what to ask.
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What questions should I ask my TMC?
Consider asking questions covering topics such as service continuity, pricing and contracts, technology integration, account management and added value. You can find a list of our recommended questions to ask here, along with reasons why.
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How do I protect our people, our policy, and our bottom line?
There are several steps you can take, including clear communication, reviewing your travel policy, and engaging with stakeholders. This guide contains steps on how to define your priorities, assess your current TMC partnership and ask the right questions.