A recent poll of European travel buyers has revealed that a growing number of corporate programs are providing special consideration for LGBTQ travelers.
According to a Business Travel Show survey, which polled 262 travel and procurement managers, 43 percent of programs now make provisions for the LGBTQ community, up from 26 percent in 2022, while a further 23 percent plan to do so by the end of the year.
Like Business Travel News, the Business Travel Show is owned by Northstar Travel Group.
Despite a growing awareness among travel managers as to the specific needs of this group, the LGBTQ community, along with neurodiverse people, remain among the least provided for travelers among corporate travel programs.
According to the research, 39 percent of companies cater to neurodiverse business travelers, with an additional 38 percent planning to improve polices by the end of 2023.
When it comes to ensuring corporate travel programs are inclusive, most corporate travel programs are focused on young people (54 percent) and communities marginalized on the basis of faith, race or religion (50 percent). Companies are also considering travelers with accessibility requirements (48 percent), older people (47 percent) and solo female travelers (45 percent).
The Institute of Travel Management recently introduced new initiatives to support the needs of neurodivergent travelers, following a wellness survey of its members earlier this year.
ITM CEO Scott Davies said trends toward equity and inclusion are "encouraging," adding that the association has "stepped up" its commitment in this area. This was evident at the recent ITM conference in Brighton, U.K., where a "quiet zone" with private booths and ambient lighting allowed delegates to take a break from the event if needed.
Donna Joines, general manager at Corporate Traveler UK, also encouraged travelers to be "as open as possible" with their TMC to ensure needs can be accommodated.
"Being aware that we must adapt and consider things that we may not have to consider in the U.K. is very important for our customers’ peace of mind," she said.
"For example, if a traveler identifies as LGBTQ+ and needs to travel to a country where the local laws are different to the U.K., we can ensure they’re booked into accommodation where they will be respected and supported with all the facilities our customer would need throughout their visit to reassure them of their safety," she added.
Business Travel Show Europe will take place June 28-29 at ExCeL London.