Airport lounges are updated to facilitate social exchange
Implications - Business travel has become so much more than clocking in hours overseas. As workers begin to realize the opportunities of travel, they're more willing, and even more enthusiastic, to partake. In addition to making the travel experience more hospitable, airlines and airports are now providing spaces for working, networking and social interaction to appeal to a new class of traveler.
Workshop Question - What relationship does your corporate culture have with the mobility of its employees?
Trend Themes
1. In-flight Networking - The trend of in-flight networking is taking over airports and airlines as a new class of traveler wants to work and socialize while traveling.
2. Luxurious Airport Lounges - Luxurious airport lounges are becoming a trend as brands like Centurion Lounge at San Francisco International Airport are offering multisensory, sculptural lounges for travelers.
3. Travel Apps for Business Professionals - Travel apps for young professionals are becoming key to help make new work connections and explore destinations while on business trips.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality Industry - The hospitality industry can benefit from providing new networking and social spaces in airports and on airlines to attract new classes of travelers.
2. Luxury Retail Industry - The luxury retail industry can benefit from providing luxurious experiences in new airport lounges that combine art and nature.
3. Technology Industry - The technology industry can benefit from creating travel apps for business professionals who want to work and explore destinations while out of town.
