JTB Business Travel has launched FlexConnect, a Global Affiliate Partner Program. The initiative, according to an announcement, is designed to offer flexibility, access and innovation for travel management companies (TMCs) in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.
During and after the pandemic, JTB conducted research focused on answering two questions:
1. How can smaller TMCs access the technologies and create the global footprint needed to better serve their business travel clients’ growing needs?
2. How can more TMCs enjoy greater stability in an uncertain environment?
The research indicated that mid-market TMCs need greater flexibility and more options to better serve small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) clients while creating stability. The affiliate program, according to the announcement, is designed to simplify network access and align with the operational resources that modern TMCs are seeking in the current environment. Specifically, participation in JTB’s FlexConnect program gives companies “affordable” access to:
• A global fulfillment network that combines international scope with local expertise, connecting organizations worldwide. This is not just a call center but rather an in-country service model covering 20 countries and growing.
• Stronger supplier relationships powered by JTB’s global influence, offering more cost-saving benefits and choices to TMCs.
• Plug-and-play access to technologies, giving clients the flexibility to choose as needed from among sustainability compliance, risk management and travel tracking tools.
• Live 24/7 after-hours service support, ensuring that someone is always available to address travel-related issues promptly and efficiently.
• Expert consulting and supplier negotiation support, leveraging JTB’s industry knowledge, expertise and human resources.
JTB said the program was created so network partners can select the necessary components to meet their unique business requirements. The fit-to-size approach, according to the company, provides the flexibility smaller organizations now require. It also democratizes managed travel, making the high-level services that large enterprises enjoy equally available to SMEs — a segment that JTB has specialized in serving since its founding.
Geert de Boo, general manager and vice president, said that as the business travel industry navigates significant changes, JTB is committed to stepping up and leading the way forward. The launch of FlexConnect, he said, “is a testament to this commitment.”
JTB said it is currently in active discussions with several TMCs and travel technology companies interested in becoming the first participants in FlexConnect. Some potential partners, according to the company, are “eager” to leverage JTB’s global network of offices to fulfill client needs, while others are interested in specially negotiated supplier programs.
