Carlson Wagonlit Travel has revealed sales figures for 2010 which showed business had been brisk for the travel management company.
The global corporation said sales volume at USD $24.3 billion was up 13.5% compared to 2009 whilst the number of transactions managed climbed 11.9%.
Growth was strongest in Asia Pacific where transactions were up by 27.7% on 2009. Latin America was next with 18.4% growth, North America saw a 12.7% boost and Europe, along with the Middle East and Africa, showed a 6.6% increase, mirroring the sluggish economy in the region.
The business travel agency said it retained 96% of clients and won US$1.8 billion in annualised new sales.
President and chief executive officer of Carlson Wagonlit Travel Douglas Anderson said: “Our growth in 2010 was driven by our success in retaining our clients, winning new business and of course, a more favourable economic environment.
“These excellent results were particularly significant in 2010 as there were many travel disruptions including heavy snow falls in Europe and the US and the Iceland volcano eruption. 2011 will certainly bring more challenges but our global teams are well positioned to continue to serve our clients effectively.”
Looking into 2011, CWT predicts a cautious approach from travellers as fuel prices hit fares and tough negotiating conditions as consolidation occurs across the travel spectrum.
by Dinah Hatch
