The global business travel industry is showing strong signs of recovery and even growth in 2025. After years of remote work and travel restrictions, companies are once again sending their employees across the globe for meetings, deals, and networking events.
According to new data from corporate travel management platforms like Navan and TravelPerk, business travel is not only rebounding but exceeding expectations. Companies such as Lyft and Shopify are leading this charge, increasing both flight and hotel bookings significantly in recent months.
Navan Reports a Sharp Rise in Business Bookings
Navan, a leading corporate travel platform, revealed a 10% increase in business flight bookings and a 25% surge in hotel reservations for its enterprise clients. The data points to strong demand from companies looking to re-engage in face-to-face business activities. Notably, Navan’s corporate clients include top firms like Lyft and Shopify, two tech companies that have adjusted their hybrid work strategies to include more in-person meetings and team gatherings.
These bookings reflect a trend where even digital-first companies are now prioritizing personal interaction and team-building through business travel.
For more on how companies like Shopify are transforming hybrid work: Shopify Newsroom
TravelPerk Sees Steady Summer Work Travel Growth
Navan is not alone. TravelPerk, another major player in the corporate travel sector, also recorded a 3% rise in summer work trips. While the number may seem modest, it’s significant in a post-pandemic market where many experts predicted a permanent decline in corporate travel. The company notes that increased employee flexibility and the rise of ‘work-from-anywhere’ policies have actually supported more travel, not less. Instead of cutting travel budgets, some businesses are reallocating them to support quarterly off-sites, team workshops, and client visits.
What’s Driving the Rise in Business Travel?
Several key factors are behind this increase in corporate travel demand: Hybrid Work Needs: Companies that operate in a hybrid model often require periodic in-person meetings to maintain culture and collaboration. Team Building: Many firms now invest in off-site meetings to improve employee morale and engagement. Client Relationships: Face-to-face meetings still play a critical role in closing deals and building trust with clients.
Industry Events: Conferences and expos are returning, attracting businesses back to major cities around the world. “After experimenting with fully remote environments, many firms have realized the value of occasional in-person interaction. Travel is now seen as an investment in people and performance,” says a spokesperson from Navan.
Travel Budgets Are Increasing in 2025
Despite economic concerns and inflation pressures, many businesses have either maintained or increased their travel budgets in 2025. A recent report by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) shows that companies are willing to spend more to secure long-term growth, client retention, and employee satisfaction.
This new approach is focused more on quality over quantity—fewer but more meaningful and strategic trips. Companies are being smart about how they plan travel, ensuring that each trip delivers measurable value.
A Strong Outlook for the Corporate Travel Industry
Analysts predict continued growth in corporate travel through 2025 and 2026. As global conditions stabilize and companies invest in long-term strategies, travel is expected to play a major role in connecting global teams and expanding businesses across regions.
According to Statista, the global business travel market could surpass $1.4 trillion by 2026, nearly returning to pre-pandemic levels. With platforms like Navan and TravelPerk providing tech-driven travel solutions, booking, expense management, and sustainability tracking are easier than ever.
Shift Toward Sustainable and Smart Travel
Interestingly, the increase in travel demand is paired with a growing focus on sustainable travel practices. Companies are adopting tools that allow employees to choose eco-friendly flight options and track carbon emissions. Platforms like TravelPerk offer green travel features and offset programs, helping companies align travel plans with their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals.
Final Thoughts: Business Travel Is an Evolving Asset
Business travel is no longer just about getting from point A to point B. It has evolved into a strategic asset for growth, culture, and connection. The recent surge in bookings by firms like Lyft and Shopify is proof that physical presence still matters, even in a digital-first world.
While remote work isn’t going away, companies are finding the right balance between virtual communication and meaningful face-to-face engagements. With smart planning, sustainable practices, and better technology, corporate travel is becoming more efficient and impactful than ever.
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