Spending projected to surpass €440 billion by 2028 as sustainability and traveller experience take center stage
Nov 10, 2025
Despite persistent economic and geopolitical headwinds, Europe’s business travel sector continues its steady recovery and is now a major driver of global growth. New GBTA data projects consistent year-over-year increases, with spending set to reach nearly €442 billion by 2028, reflecting Europe’s ongoing resilience and strategic importance to global corporate travel.
Key takeaways
- Strong upward trajectory: European business travel spending is projected to grow 8.2% in 2026, reaching €389.9 billion, and continue rising to €441.6 billion by 2028.
- Western Europe dominance: Western Europe will account for 88% of all European business travel spend in 2025, led by Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.
- Purpose-driven travel: Top reasons for business trips include training, conferences, and internal company meetings, reflecting a focus on collaboration and learning.
- Average trip costs: The typical European business trip costs €850.7, with UK travellers spending the most (€1,305) and Poland and Sweden the least (~€640).
- Shift in traveller mindset: 83% of travellers view business travel as essential for meeting objectives, but Europeans remain more cautious toward AI trip booking and mixing leisure with work trips.
- Rail on the rise: 38% of European business travellers used rail on their last trip—significantly higher than other regions—showing a growing preference for sustainable travel modes.
- Corporate travel structure: About one-third of European companies now have a dedicated travel manager or team, highlighting the professionalization of travel management across the region.
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