Flight Centre Travel Group's Annual General Meeting 2025

Comments by Melissa Elf, Global Chief Operating Officer, FCM Travel & Corporate Traveller:

“The ANZ market remains the bedrock of our corporate operations, where we've built decades of trust and expertise. In today's environment of fluctuating airfares, changing travel patterns, and global uncertainties, our local know-how, combined with our global reach, provides unmatched value to Australian and New Zealand businesses.

“Corporate Traveller has experienced success in the vibrant ANZ small and medium enterprise sector, where its combination of dedicated local consultants and intuitive technology has proven to be precisely what growing businesses need.

“ANZ businesses are increasingly recognising that managing travel isn't just about finding the lowest fare. It's about having a strategic partner who can navigate international disruptions, ensure compliance with the duty of care, and provide visibility into travel spend worldwide.

“FCM continues to expand its presence among larger ANZ organisations, where its ability to customise solutions for complex travel requirements has proven particularly valuable.

The brand has successfully implemented New Distribution Capability (NDC) technology for many Australian customers, delivering enhanced content options and often better pricing in a market where value remains paramount.

“Both corporate brands have embraced artificial intelligence to enhance service delivery for ANZ clients, with people-powered AI now helping route inquiries to the most appropriate local consultants.

“This tech works behind the scenes to support the human relationships that remain central to our alternative business philosophy, ensuring that tech enhances rather than replaces the personal touch that distinguishes the region's business practices.

“The USA Federal Government shutdown and other global uncertainties show us that having a professional travel management company on your side is even more crucial for ANZ businesses with global operations.

"Business travel remains fundamental to how Australian and New Zealand companies build relationships and grow their businesses. Our role is to ensure that when our customers need to travel – whether across the Tasman or around the world – they can do so with the confidence that comes from having expert local support combined with global capabilities."

Comments by Charlene Leiss, President of the Americas, Flight Centre Travel Group

“We’ve seen strong growth on the corporate side of the business in the Americas at the start of FY26. Our flagship business travel divisions, Corporate Traveler and FCM Travel, continue to strengthen their market position, win new business, and expand their presence regionally.

“Despite ongoing economic volatility and geopolitical tensions, both divisions have shown exceptional resilience and adaptability. Our ability to pivot and provide real-time support in an increasingly complex travel environment has been integral to helping companies navigate uncertainty and turn their business travel programs into catalysts for sustainable growth.

“During disruptions like the current Federal Government shutdown and flight reductions, having a trusted travel management company spearheaded by people and tech has never been more crucial. Our corporate brands are not just booking services – they're essential risk management partners always providing real-time support and strategic guidance.

“In the small-to-medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector — one of the fastest-growing segments in the U.S. travel industry — Corporate Traveler has accelerated its expansion across the Americas. By focusing on specialist SME sectors, we’ve achieved strategic account wins across key industries, including life sciences, finance, technology, sports, and entertainment.

“Adoption of our Melon platform has also grown significantly, helping us enhance the customer experience, optimize efficiency, and ensure we remain at the forefront of digital innovation in the business travel space.

“FCM Travel continues to distinguish itself as the true alternative in the corporate travel market by seamlessly blending innovation with human expertise – an approach that has led to several new global business wins. Through deepened investments in FCM Meetings & Events and FCM Consulting, the company’s comprehensive suite of services continues to set it apart.

“This year also saw the relaunch of Sam, our AI-powered virtual travel assistant, which has transformed the traveler experience by delivering more personalized, efficient, and seamless solutions. FCM’s customer-led AI strategy continues to drive rapid innovation, with new features and enhancements rolled out in direct response to client feedback.

“As NDC becomes the new standard in airline retailing, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering value to our clients and partners. Our proactive embrace of NDC ensures we still meet changing customer needs by delivering content faster, more effectively, and at scale.

“As the corporate travel industry continues to evolve, we’ll explore new technology-driven initiatives, including a range of AI-focused innovations, designed to transform the customer experience and strengthen our competitive position in the marketplace.

“We’re poised for even more success in the year ahead – one defined by innovation, growth, and meaningful impact across the business.”

Comments by Chris Galanty, Global Corporate CEO, Flight Centre Travel Group:

“As global business travel continues to face challenges, from airline disruptions to geopolitical tensions, including the USA government shutdown, FCTG’s corporate brands FCM Travel and Corporate Traveller demonstrate the vital nature of expert travel management for businesses.

“Having a trusted travel management company spearheaded by people and tech has never been more crucial. Our corporate brands are not just booking services – they're essential risk management partners always providing real-time support and strategic guidance.

“Our customers have benefited from immediate assistance during disruptions, with dedicated consultants proactively managing itinerary changes and providing duty-of-care services that have proven invaluable.

“Corporate Traveller thrives with its dedicated consultant model, particularly resonating with small and medium enterprises seeking personalised service alongside technological efficiency.

“The brand's Northern Hemisphere Melon platform continues to gain adoption as businesses recognise the value of blending high-tech solutions with high-touch service, reflected in strong customer satisfaction metrics and improved retention rates.

“FCM Travel continues to strengthen its position serving larger organisations with complex travel needs, expanding its client base by securing significant new accounts throughout the year.

“The business is leveraging its proprietary technology suite to deliver customised solutions to sophisticated travel programmes, while making substantial progress with New Distribution Capability implementation.

“We’re at the forefront of implementing artificial intelligence tech that enhances service delivery while improving operational efficiency. AI now intelligently routes inbound requests to the appropriate consultants, improving response times and saving thousands of consultant hours.

"Business travel remains essential to prosperity, even in uncertain times. Our role is to ensure that when our customers' people need to travel – whether to close deals, grow relationships, or drive innovation – they can with confidence knowing they have expert support at every stage."