S
everal themes are shaping the future of employee relocation, assignments and business travel. These are:
• Increased focus on sustainability: ESG standards will continue to influence relocation, with more emphasis on reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable living choices.
• Flexible housing options: As rental markets become more competitive, companies may need to offer a wider range of housing options, including suburban and commuter areas, to accommodate employees’ needs while remaining within budget.
• Digital transformation: The relocation process will increasingly rely on digital tools and data analytics, enabling more precise and efficient planning while keeping costs down.
• Cost control: Companies will continue to explore ways to reduce the overall cost of relocation, whether by helping employees downsize before they move, negotiating better deals with landlords in less central locations, or nurturing long-term relationships with accommodation providers.
Here we explore how industry experts expect these themes to play out over the next year.
1. USING TECHNOLOGY TO MANAGE MOBILITY PROGRAMMES BETTER Overall, 46% of companies are looking to increase the use of technology, according to Vialto Partners’ recent research ‘Mobility (R)evolution’. In 2018, only 4% of companies stated they use innovative technology to support employee experience, compared to 46% today. In two years’ time, this is predicted to increase again to 63%. The report says predictive analytics are the key to staying ahead of the curve. While only 12% of companies surveyed currently use it to shape their mobility programmes, this number is expected to grow. “We’re looking at using artificial intelligence to help
analyse someone’s skills against the government rules for that type of worker,” says Claire Pepper, partner and business travel leader for EMEA, Vialto Partners. Looking ahead to 2025, the integration of
technology will continue to play a significant role in transforming global mobility. “We’re likely to see more advancements in AI and machine learning, not only to streamline relocation processes, but also to improve the employee experience with personalised support and real-time data insights,” says Kim Krollman, EVP strategic solutions of OWL, a collaborative marketplace for short-term housing, which was shortlisted for Best Serviced Apartment Provider and Excellence in Technology in the Think Global People and Relocate Awards 2024. “Companies will also continue investing in digital solutions to manage compliance, track global assignments, and enhance the overall mobility lifecycle.”
2. A GREATER FOCUS ON HEALTH & SAFETY AMID GLOBAL TURMOIL The new data-driven approach is particularly valuable in regions prone to political instability. Early warnings about potential unrest can give companies the time they need to move employees out or make other necessary preparations. “Analytics can also be immensely helpful in a crisis, as well as contingency planning for political and policy changes,” says Claire Pepper. Indeed, health and safety and compliance are critical
when it comes to duty of care, says Kabiru Onikoyi, director of global services EME/APAC at 3Sixty, and good quality information can be invaluable. “When there were riots in Nairobi in Kenya, which completely disrupted social cohesion in the city, we were able to help clients make contingency plans,” he says. “It might be around advice to leave or sit tight and stock up on provisions in preparation. Critical intelligence in advance can be invaluable in tertiary locations.” With escalating tensions in Southeast Asia, the war
between Ukraine and Russia in Europe, the ongoing Middle East conflict and the increasing threat of terrorism and piracy in the Red Sea disrupting supply chains, there are countless examples of how essential travel poses a risk to personnel. “In addition, businesses are navigating the ongoing
risk of pandemics and infectious diseases, such as the spread of mpox or the deadly Marburg virus, as well as political instability impacting certain wider markets too,” says Cliff Thoburn, global head of intelligence, RMI Global Solutions.
“ A focus on health and safety culture in large organisations means that all too often security and protection are an afterthought, or not considered at all. In an increasingly dangerous world, this isn’t an area that should be ignored. Conduct your due diligence, choose wisely and have potential partners evidence how they are the right for you. One size never fits all.”
CLIFF THOBURN, GLOBAL HEAD OF INTELLIGENCE, RMI GLOBAL SOLUTIONS.
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GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUPPLEMENT
GLOBAL MOBILITY
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