New research from American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) and Ipsos suggests small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on both sides of the Atlantic place a lot of importance on face-to-face interaction for growing their businesses. According to the survey of 500 senior decision-makers in the UK and US, 83% said increasing in-person engagement with clients and customers will be a key component of growth over the next year.
Conferences, trade shows and exhibitions were cited as the leading reasons for business travel in 2025 – ahead of professional training and client relationship building.
But are they actually spending? However, while the research highlights strong sentiment in favour of face-to-face engagement, it stops short of confirming whether this intent is translating into higher travel budgets or increased spend. The data focuses on attitudes and priorities rather than actual expenditure, leaving open the question of whether SMEs are travelling more, or simply travelling more selectively.
Gap in the market for a centralised travel manager? The report also reveals a significant gap in travel management practices. Only 35% of SMEs currently manage business travel through a centralised system, a figure Amex GBT positions as an opportunity to improve cost control, traveller safety and policy compliance. At the same time, the lack of centralisation raises questions about visibility and efficiency as travel activity increases.
The ever-present question of AI: SMEs want help AI adoption emerges as another defining theme. 78% of respondents say adopting new technology such as AI is a priority for success, but many SMEs report a need for external support, with a notable gap in preparedness between US and UK firms. More US firms have dedicated AI personnel than UK companies.