The report, written by IBTM contributor Mike Fletcher, finds that the sector is growing at an annual rate of 12.1%, and predicts that the number of people participating in incentive travel programmes worldwide will grow by 61% in 2024, compared to 2019.
These figures reflect the power of incentive travel schemes as a valuable resource to attract, retain and motivate talent and as an essential driver of culture and reputation, particularly as the modern workforce becomes ever more disparate with working-from-home and hybrid working.
Despite its revival, the sector still faces significant challenges including talent shortages, inflation, rising travel and supply chain costs, the report says. Tighter corporate budgets have resulted in a reduction in the frequency of business trips and fewer employees attending face-to-face events. The report highlights the need for companies to adapt their incentive travel schemes to ensure they remain competitive.