The two groups in 2012 had
a falling out in the wake of the global organization's chapter plans, prompting the Georgia chapter to move to wind down exclusivity and
enter a joint venture with the Association of Corporate Travel Executives. In March 2013, GBTA elected to
withdraw its arbitration claim against the Georgia chapter and said it would explore "a local chapter membership plan for Atlanta and the surrounding local markets." "We are excited to enter this affiliation with GBTA to engage in a meaningful dialogue focusing on areas of mutual interest and increasing opportunities for our members to get the experiences that will help them grow their careers in the business travel industry," according to a prepared statement from Georgia BTA president Cindy Mann, who did not immediately respond to an inquiry for more information. Regarding the status of the ACTE-Georgia BTA joint venture, ACTE executive director Greeley Koch told
BTN that his association "is ready to continue to work with the Georgia Business Travel Association, whether the project is a joint study, a white paper or providing speakers."