AmEx introduces new business service unit
American Express Business Travel has unveiled a global advisory services unit that includes 200 consultants.
The new group will focus on providing services that deliver a return on investment for purchases and heightened program controls, announced the company.
The new unit differs from Amex’s existing service in part because of its global scope. It also differs by going deeper into a travel program than simply the usual air, hotel and car rental, according to Andrew McGraw, senior vice president and general manager of American Express Business Travel, North America Advisory Services.
“We brought every other area that could possibly deliver savings to a client into the organization together. It really brings us another opportunity to do business differently than it traditionally is done today,” he said.
He said the move to unbundled advisory services reflects an industry-wide reduction in transaction pricing due to online booking. It also shows a renewed focus on value-added travel management company services, he added.
Pricing of the new service will depend on customer size and various needs. Mid-size companies will be able to purchase toolsets to help them calculate savings.
Report by David Wilkening
David
Vegas’s Billion-Dollar Secrets – What They Don’t Want Tourists to Know
Visit Florida’s New CEO Bryan Griffin Shares His Vision for State Tourism with Graham
Chicago’s Tourism Renaissance: Graham Interviews Kristin Reynolds of Choose Chicago
Graham Talks with Cassandra McCauley of MMGY NextFactor About the Latest Industry Research
Destination International’s Andreas Weissenborn: Research, Advocacy, and Destination Impact
Graham and Don Welsh Discuss the Success of Destinations International’s Annual Conference
Graham and CEO Andre Kiwitz on Ventura Travel’s UK Move and Recruitment for the Role
Brett Laiken and Graham Discuss Florida’s Tourism Momentum and Global Appeal
Graham and Elliot Ferguson on Positioning DC as a Cultural and Inclusive Global Destination
Graham Talks to Fraser Last About His England-to-Ireland Trek for Mental Health Awareness
Kathy Nelson Tells Graham About the Honour of Hosting the World Cup and Kansas City’s Future
Graham McKenzie on Sir Richie Richardson’s Dual Passion for Golf and His Homeland, Antigua
ADS PRO 
Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt
TAP Air Portugal to operate 29 flights due to strike on December 11
Qatar Airways offers flexible payment options for European travellers
Airbnb eyes a loyalty program but details remain under wraps
Air Mauritius reduces frequencies to Europe and Asia for the holiday season