Overcoming The Hidden Challenges Of Marine Travel

On paper, marine travel may sound straightforward: move crew from their home to their ship, on time. But anyone in the industry knows it’s rarely that simple. Behind the scenes lie constant challenges that make crew changes one of the toughest tasks in global travel. It often involves multiple modes of transport, and sometimes the mercy of the weather

At ACE, we’ve spent years untangling these complexities. Here are some of the hidden challenges and how we help you overcome them.

1. Shifting crew rotations

Crew schedules are fluid, often changing at short notice due to vessel delays, weather, or port availability. A fixed itinerary quickly becomes outdated.

How ACE helps: We provide 24/7 marine desk support, ready to respond to sudden changes. Our systems are designed for agility, so last-minute adjustments don’t derail operations.

2. Unpredictable costs

With last-minute bookings, complex itineraries, and global routes, costs can spiral quickly. Marine travel is notorious for unexpected expenses. It is absolutely fundamental that your marine travel partner has access to, and can secure the best available rates.

How ACE helps: We secure specialist marine and seaman fares, offering flexibility at reduced cost. By monitoring booking patterns, we also help identify where savings can be made.

3. Global time zones

Managing crew movements across continents is about logistics and seamless coordination. One misalignment can lead to delays and missed connections, which is why use tried and tested routes, and are quick to react in the case of disruption.

How ACE helps: Our global network and round-the-clock coverage allow us to manage crew travel across time zones, ensuring seamless connections.

4. Compliance and duty of care

Each journey involves visas, regulations, and safety requirements. Missing a step can cause serious delays and put crew welfare at risk.

How ACE helps: We keep compliance front and centre, ensuring every traveller is supported with the right documentation, information, and care.

5. The domino effect of disruption

In marine travel, a single missed connection can cascade into days of lost productivity and costly rescheduling. The stakes are higher than in other sectors.

How ACE helps: We work hard to anticipate disruption with a mix of forecasting, and good old industry know-how from our experienced operations team. By spotting issues early, we prevent small problems becoming systemic.

Keeping ships moving

Marine travel isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about keeping vessels operational and people safe, no matter how unpredictable the journey. At ACE, we understand the stakes and we’re built to handle them.Find out more about marine travel management service, and get in touch with our marine specialists today.

Do Business Consultants Book Travel? Yes, But That’s Not All

It’s true, a business travel consultant can book your flights, hotels, and ground transport. But their role isn’t just about arranging travel. Consultants help travellers make informed choices for individual trips, find the best fares, and ensure policies are applied correctly.

Think of them as experts who make each journey run smoothly, while providing practical advice to reduce costs or improve convenience, while account managers take on the responsibility of account-wide analysis and recommendations.

What business travel consultants actually do

They help you find the best options for your trip

A consultant can advise on the most cost-effective flights, alternative routes, or better hotel rates. Their knowledge of available deals and booking tools means travellers can save money and avoid unnecessary complications.

They ensure compliance with policy

Consultants check that bookings meet your travel policy. If something doesn’t align, they can recommend alternatives and explain the implications. This keeps travel within the rules and avoids last-minute surprises.

They manage bookings and adjustments

Flight changes, cancellations, or rebookings are all part of a consultant’s remit. They handle these operational tasks quickly, helping travellers stay on schedule and reduce stress.

They provide practical advice for smooth travel

From visa requirements to airport transfers, consultants can flag potential issues and suggest solutions for each individual trip. Their insights are grounded in experience and aim to make travel as straightforward as possible.

They support cost awareness on a trip-by-trip basis

Business travel consultants can suggest cheaper travel options or highlight unnecessary costs for a single journey. This practical input helps organisations control spend in real time.

Booking is the core, advice is the value

Business travel consultants are essential. They book travel and ensure it complies with your policy, but their added value comes from providing guidance and practical recommendations for each trip.

Consultants focus on making each journey cost-effective, smooth, and compliant, helping travellers and your business in the day-to-day. With years of experience behind them, they often have an instinctive idea of how to best manage your trips in accordance with your travel policy.

Are you ready to work with business travel consultants who have all of these attributes, and more? Get in touch with our team of experts, and discover how we can streamline your travel management programme. 

How can you measure value for money on business travel in today’s dynamic pricing market?

Business travel pricing isn’t what it used to be.

In today’s market, where airline and hotel rates fluctuate not just seasonally but daily — sometimes hourly — getting the “best deal” has become far more complex. The question many companies are now asking isn’t how much are we spending, but rather, are we getting value for money?

It’s a fair question and a critical one. However, in an environment where pricing is dynamic and supply chains are increasingly unpredictable, measuring value goes far beyond comparing costs.

For Finance Directors, Procurement Leads, HR teams, and Executive Assistants alike, understanding what “value” really looks like in business travel is essential to building a smarter, more resilient programme.

Why pricing is no longer the full picture

Take airfares, for example. Two identical seats on the same flight can vary in price depending on:

  • Booking lead time
  • Time of day or day of the week
  • Booking channel or supplier
  • Demand forecasting by the airline

Hotel rates are similarly unpredictable, with prices shifting based on local events, room availability, loyalty status, or even historical demand patterns.

The bottom line? Pricing has become too volatile to serve as a standalone benchmark for value. Instead, organisations need to broaden their lens to assess what they’re actually getting (and what they’re avoiding) when it comes to business travel.

What does value for money really mean?

Measuring value means assessing more than just cost. It includes:

  • Total trip cost: not just fares, but ancillaries, cancellations, upgrades, and changes
  • Booking behaviours: are travellers complying with policy? Are they booking early enough to secure better rates?
  • Duty of care: is the trip safe, secure, and visible to the organisation at all times?
  • Time efficiency: how much time is saved (or lost) by the choices made?
  • Sustainability: are the chosen suppliers aligned with your company’s ESG objectives?
  • Traveller satisfaction: are employees happy with the options provided, or bypassing policy out of frustration?

The most effective travel programmes take a holistic approach, combining data, behavioural insights, and policy structure to build a programme that delivers consistency and clarity — not just short-term savings.

Using analytics and benchmarking to measure value

One of the most powerful tools companies can use to determine value is data. Not just raw numbers, but insights.

At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we work with clients to implement smart analytics and benchmarking tools that make it possible to answer key questions, such as:

  • Are we paying more than the market average for a specific route or hotel?
  • Which departments or individuals are booking outside of policy most frequently?
  • What would we save if all flights were booked 14+ days in advance?
  • How are our carbon emissions tracking month-on-month?
  • Which suppliers are delivering best-in-class value, not just pricing?

These tools don’t just report on spend, they help identify opportunities to adjust policies, communicate with travellers, negotiate better supplier deals, or shift behaviours in a meaningful way.

The role of behaviour in driving or diluting value

Even with the best negotiated rates and policies in place, value can quickly erode through unmanaged traveller behaviour.

A few common examples:

  • Booking premium hotels “just in case”.
  • Choosing flexible fares unnecessarily.
  • Booking direct with suppliers instead of through approved channels.
  • Failing to cancel unused bookings or flights.

This is why value management has to include the people element. When you understand how and why travellers make the choices they do, you can introduce solutions — like better communication, approval processes, or reporting — to steer behaviour without creating friction.

Taking a programme-level view

Flights and hotels may make up the bulk of business travel spend, but they shouldn’t be managed in isolation. A fragmented approach risks missed savings, inconsistent experiences and poor policy compliance.

To truly measure and drive value, companies need to:

  • Set clear travel policies that balance cost, duty of care and flexibility.
  • Track performance over time, not just per transaction.
  • Engage stakeholders across departments, from finance to HR to procurement.
  • Leverage analytics to inform, not just report.
  • Partner with a TMC that can bring clarity to the complexity.

Final thought: it’s about smarter decisions, not just cheaper bookings

In today’s volatile pricing environment, value for money isn’t about spending less; it’s about spending wisely.

With the right data, policy structure and behavioural insights, businesses can take control of their travel programme, even in a market that refuses to sit still.

If you’d like to understand how your current travel programme stacks up or where there might be untapped value, the ACE Travel Management ATG UK team is always here for a conversation.

Get in touch today.

Data-driven insights for business travel: how insightful are they without the human touch?

We live in a world driven by data. From pricing trends and carbon tracking to traveller behaviour and supplier performance, modern business travel generates a constant stream of metrics, dashboards and reports.

And rightly so; data has become essential for managing cost, ensuring compliance, and supporting sustainability goals. But in the race to digitise and optimise, one important question often gets overlooked:

How useful are your insights without the human context to guide them?

At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we believe that true business travel intelligence isn’t just about what the numbers say, it’s about what they mean and what you do with them.

The rise of data in travel management

Over the last decade, data has transformed how travel is managed. Organisations now have access to detailed reporting on:

  • Booking behaviours by department or individual
  • Advance purchase patterns and missed savings
  • Supplier performance against negotiated rates
  • Emissions tracking per trip or traveller
  • Policy compliance and out-of-channel bookings

These metrics are incredibly valuable. They help businesses spot inefficiencies, identify areas for improvement, and track progress towards strategic goals. But as any travel manager knows, data alone doesn’t drive change — people do.

The limits of data without human interpretation

Let’s consider an example. Your report shows that one team consistently books travel less than three days in advance. The data might suggest poor planning, but the human story could reveal:

  • A team dealing with reactive client demands
  • A lack of clarity around policy and approval processes
  • A new joiner who hasn’t been onboarded into the travel programme

Without context, it’s easy to make assumptions. But decisions based on assumptions can quickly lead to friction, miscommunication, or even policies that alienate rather than support.

The same applies to sustainability data. A dashboard may flag missed opportunities to book greener travel options, but only by speaking with your travellers will you understand whether those options were actually viable at the time.

The power of human-led insight

That’s where the human touch makes all the difference.

At ACE, our team doesn’t just provide reports; we interpret them with you. We help our clients:

  • Understand why certain behaviours are happening
  • Connect the dots between policy, culture, and performance
  • Translate data into actionable recommendations
  • Provide training, communication and traveller support to embed changes
  • Identify and benchmark against realistic, achievable goals

It’s this combination of data and insight that creates real impact, not just statistics.

Technology is the tool, not the strategy

There’s no question that analytics platforms are a vital part of any modern travel programme. At ACE, we offer clients access to smart dashboards and reporting capabilities that allow for:

  • Custom views by department, region or policy
  • CO₂ tracking aligned to corporate ESG targets
  • Benchmarking against historical data and industry averages

But technology is just one part of the equation.

What sets a well-run travel programme apart is how that data is interpreted and embedded into decision-making — whether it’s shaping future policy, renegotiating with suppliers, or adjusting internal workflows to better support compliance.

And those decisions still require human judgement, industry expertise, and a deep understanding of your business and its travellers.

Balancing data and empathy

It’s tempting to view compliance, savings, and sustainability as numbers to be “fixed.” But in business travel, people are the drivers of the programme and they need to be engaged, supported, and understood.

This is especially true for companies that:

  • Have frequent last-minute or international travel
  • Operate in sectors with complex duty of care needs
  • Are working towards ambitious ESG goals
  • Are scaling fast and need policies to flex as they grow

In these environments, a purely numbers-led approach can feel rigid or impersonal. That’s why the most successful travel programmes are those that pair strong data capabilities with empathetic, human-centred support.

Final thought: smart data, human strategy

The future of business travel is undoubtedly data-driven, but not at the expense of the human experience. True insight comes from understanding context and using data to support better decisions, not dictate them.

At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we help businesses find that balance, combining best-in-class reporting with tailored, consultative guidance that turns insight into progress.

If you’re looking for a travel programme that brings together the clarity of data with the nuance of human support, we’d love to have a conversation.

Contact us

How Much Does Managing Behaviour Affect Your Business Travel Programme?

In a world where technology can book travel in seconds and data flows freely across borders, it’s easy to assume that managing a business travel programme is just a matter of systems, processes and suppliers.

But there’s a less tangible and often overlooked factor that can quietly undermine even the best-planned travel programme: traveller behaviour.

How employees behave when booking and managing their business travel has a direct impact on cost, compliance, sustainability, and overall programme performance. And it’s not just about “bad habits”. Often it’s about unclear expectations, inconsistent processes, or well-intentioned decisions made without visibility of the bigger picture.

So, how much does behaviour really matter? And more importantly, what can be done to guide it in the right direction?

What happens when policies are ignored

Even the most well-crafted travel policies can fall short if employees don’t understand them or don’t feel motivated to follow them.

We are regularly approached for help by companies struggling with corporate travellers doing the following:

  • Booking outside approved channels because they find it faster
  • Selecting higher-cost options out of habit or perceived convenience
  • Upgrading unnecessarily or booking too late
  • Skipping sustainable choices in favour of familiarity

Each of these decisions might seem minor in isolation, but at scale, they can lead to:

  • Escalated travel costs
  • Reduced visibility for duty of care
  • Inaccurate carbon reporting
  • Compliance gaps that frustrate both travellers and finance teams

And the truth is, many of these behaviours stem not from carelessness, but from a lack of communication, clarity, or accountability.

Why behavioural management matters more than ever

As travel returns to pre-pandemic volumes — but with tighter budgets and greater scrutiny — companies are under pressure to optimise every part of their travel spend.

That optimisation isn’t just about getting better deals. It’s about understanding how human behaviour influences compliance, cost-efficiency, and sustainability.

For example:

  • A traveller booking a last-minute flight outside of policy may increase spend by 30–50%.
  • Frequent hotel upgrades might go unnoticed if no approval checkpoints are in place.
  • Ignoring sustainable alternatives can compromise a company’s ESG commitments.

With growing interest from procurement, HR, and C-suite leaders in making travel smarter and greener, unmanaged traveller behaviour becomes a strategic issue, not just a policy concern.

Encouraging smarter travel behaviour

So, how can organisations begin to address this?

At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we work with clients every day to help shape and support positive travel behaviours, not just enforce rules. Here are a few key levers:

1. Clear, accessible travel policies

A long PDF hidden in an intranet folder isn’t going to drive compliance. Policies need to be easy to access, simple to understand, and relevant to real scenarios. Think mobile-friendly summaries, FAQs, and in-tool nudges.

2. Booking platform controls and smart automation

Use technology to guide behaviour in the moment. Integrated booking tools can restrict non-compliant options, show cost comparisons, or highlight sustainable choices, making the right action the easiest one.

3. Pre-trip approval workflows

A robust authorisation process doesn’t have to create bottlenecks. Instead, it can serve as a checkpoint to review unusual requests, spot patterns, and keep spending aligned with policy.

4. Communication and culture

Behavioural change isn’t just about policy; it’s about culture. Regular communication, internal champions, and leadership buy-in all help create a shared understanding of why compliance matters, not just what the rules are.

5. Reporting and feedback

Share regular insights with departments, teams, and travellers. Visibility of personal or team performance can encourage accountability, while also helping travel managers spot trends and intervene early.

The bigger picture: people first, policy supported

Ultimately, managing behaviour isn’t about controlling employees, it’s about supporting them to make better decisions in line with company goals. It’s about creating a travel programme that works for everyone: the traveller, the business, and the planet.

When organisations combine smart policies, intuitive tech, and strong communication, they see improvements not just in compliance, but in cost savings, traveller satisfaction and sustainability outcomes.

Want to learn more?

If you’re looking to improve how behaviour impacts your business travel programme — whether it’s through better tools, policy refinement or communication strategies — our team at ACE Travel Management ATG UK would be happy to help.

We’ve supported companies across a wide range of sectors to create smarter, more sustainable travel programmes.

Feel free to get in touch, we’re always open to a conversation.

What is a Business Travel Agent and How Can They Help?

The demand for efficient travel solutions has never been higher. As companies expand their reach across borders, often juggling complex multi-destination trips and last-minute changes, the need for seamless and effective travel management becomes paramount. This is where a business travel agent comes into play.


A business travel agent is not just a facilitator of bookings but a strategic partner in managing corporate travel, ensuring that every trip is optimised for cost, convenience, and productivity. But what exactly does a business travel agent do, and how can they assist your business?

Understanding the role of a business travel agent

A business travel agent is a specialised professional who manages the intricacies of corporate travel. Unlike a traditional travel agent who might focus on leisure trips, a business travel agent is well-versed in the complexities of corporate itineraries. This means they’re adept at tasks like coordinating multi-city international journeys with tight connection times, understanding nuanced corporate fare rules, and managing group bookings for conferences.


Their expertise covers everything from booking flights, trains and accommodation to navigating the often-complicated visa processes and arranging ground transportation. Their primary goal is to ensure that business travellers reach their destinations with minimal hassle and remain safe during their trip — allowing them to focus on their work rather than the logistics of travel.


At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, our dedicated travel experts are available 24/7 to handle these complexities with a personalised, high-touch approach tailored to your business policies and preferences.

Tailored travel solutions

One of the key benefits of working with a business travel agent is the tailored solutions they provide. They take into account your company’s specific needs, including travel policies, budget constraints, and individual preferences.


This personalisation ensures that travel arrangements align with the broader goals of your organisation, for instance, prioritising direct flights for time-sensitive executive trips, even if slightly more expensive, while finding the most economical routes for routine staff travel, all while adhering to cost-saving and sustainable measures or ensuring that executives travel in comfort.


At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we take this a step further through our proprietary TravelSpace platform, which integrates booking tools, traveller profiles, policy documents, and sustainability metrics into one seamless experience.

Expertise and industry knowledge

A significant advantage of employing a business travel agent is their deep industry knowledge. Business travel agents have access to the latest information on airlines, hotels, and travel trends, which they use to secure the best deals and ensure smooth travel experiences.

They are often privy to exclusive rates and offers that are not available to the general public, further optimising your travel budget. Moreover, their experience enables them to anticipate and mitigate potential issues, from flight cancellations to hotel overbookings, ensuring that your business trips proceed without disruption.

Imagine a scenario: a major conference is looming, and your preferred hotel is fully booked. A business travel agent, leveraging their network, might secure a block of rooms at a comparable nearby hotel at a negotiated rate, or even find availability at the original hotel through channels not open to the public, saving your team significant stress and time.

Thanks to our membership in the Advantage Travel Partnership, ACE Travel Management ATG UK has the buying power and airline relationships, enabling us to secure exclusive rates, upgrades, and perks other providers often cannot offer.

The benefits of using a business travel agent

Engaging a business travel agent offers a multitude of benefits, each contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of your corporate travel programme.

Cost efficiency

One of the most compelling reasons to utilise a business travel agent is the potential for cost savings. With their extensive networks and insider knowledge, business travel agents can secure discounted rates for flights, hotels, and car rentals.

They are skilled at finding the most cost-effective options that do not compromise on quality, ensuring that your company receives the best value for money. While specific savings vary, many businesses report significant reductions in their overall travel spend, often ranging from 10-20% (according to various industry studies), simply by leveraging a business travel agent’s ability to access negotiated fares and preferred rates.


Additionally, they monitor travel expenses, helping to identify areas where costs can be reduced without affecting the traveller’s experience. Think of the savings accrued not just from a cheaper flight, but from avoiding last-minute premium prices because travel was booked optimally in advance, or by bundling services.


ACE Travel Management ATG UK enhances cost efficiency through predictive analytics and supplier benchmarking tools that identify leakage, maximise value, and help us negotiate smarter deals on your behalf.

Time savings

Managing corporate travel can be a time-consuming process, particularly for organisations with frequent travellers. A business travel agent alleviates this burden by handling all aspects of travel planning, from researching the best routes to making bookings and processing expense reports. Consider the hours an internal admin or the travellers themselves might spend trawling through multiple websites comparing options for a multi-leg trip versus a business travel agent, which can often present optimal choices within minutes.


This allows your employees to focus on their core responsibilities, increasing overall productivity within your organisation.

Enhanced traveller support

Business travel is often unpredictable, with changes to schedules and unexpected challenges being commonplace. A business travel agent provides 24/7 support to address any issues that arise during travel.


Whether it’s rebooking a flight due to a delay, finding alternative accommodation, or arranging emergency transportation, having a dedicated professional on hand offers peace of mind and ensures that disruptions are handled swiftly.


With ACE Travel Management ATG UK, every client has direct access to a team of advisors who know their travel preferences, policies, and profiles — ensuring personalised and proactive support at every step.

Policy compliance

For companies with established travel policies, ensuring compliance can be a challenge. Business travel agents help enforce these policies by booking within the guidelines and offering solutions that meet corporate standards. For example, they can configure booking tools to only show options that meet pre-defined criteria (e.g., specific airlines, hotel star ratings, or price caps for certain routes), flagging any exceptions for approval.


This not only maintains control over travel spending but also ensures that all travel arrangements are made in line with company preferences and requirements.

Risk management

In an era where travel risks have become more prominent, having a business travel agent who understands the complexities of risk management is invaluable. They keep track of global events that may affect travel and provide guidance on travel safety.

Should an emergency arise, they coordinate with travel insurers and other relevant parties to manage the situation, safeguarding the well-being of your employees. For instance, in the event of a natural disaster or sudden political instability in a region where an employee is travelling, a business travel agent can proactively track their location, provide timely alerts, and assist with emergency evacuation or rerouting if necessary.

The strategic value of a business travel agent

A business travel agent is far more than just a booking service. They are strategic partners who bring expertise, efficiency, and support to your corporate travel programme. By leveraging their services, companies can not only save time and money but also enhance the travel experience for their employees, ensuring that business trips are as productive and stress-free as possible.

At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we do all of this and more, bringing together care, climate, and cost — the 3 Cs of our travel management philosophy — to deliver bespoke, sustainable, and ROI-focused travel programmes that evolve with your business.

Are you ready to optimise your corporate travel programme? Contact us today to discover how our business travel agents can streamline your travel management process and deliver results for your organisation.

Think You Know ACE Travel Management ATG UK? Think Again.

At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we believe that managing business travel isn’t just about getting from A to B — it’s about understanding the people behind the travel, the goals driving every journey, and the importance of blending world-class technology with a human touch.

As a leading independent travel management company and the sole UK franchise of ATG Global Travel, we’ve built a reputation for service, care, and trust since our founding in 1992. Here are the top 10 things you need to know about us—and why businesses that travel, trust ACE Travel Management ATG UK.

1. Making business personal

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all travel programmes. Every client relationship begins with a conversation, not a contract. We learn about your people, your travel culture, and your goals, so we can tailor your travel strategy with precision. From executive itineraries to group bookings and policy design, we treat every interaction as an opportunity to add value.

This personal approach means your travel programme reflects your business identity, not a generic template. We invest time in truly understanding how your company operates, what your travellers value, and what success looks like for you, so your travel policy becomes a genuine strategic tool.

2. Service that’s more than a promise

Service is not just a department at ACE Travel Management ATG UK, it’s at the heart of who we are. Our dedicated travel experts work as an extension of your team, available 24/7 with the insight and flexibility to make things happen. Whether it’s a last-minute itinerary change or support during a global disruption, we’re by your side when it matters most.

Behind every booking is a team of real people who care. We don’t outsource support, and we don’t rely solely on systems — our service is powered by human insight and accountability, ensuring that even the unexpected is handled with speed, empathy, and precision.

3. Answering the phone in three rings

This isn’t a gimmick — it’s a standard. When you call ACE Travel Management ATG UK, you speak to a real, experienced person who knows your account, understands your needs, and is ready to act. No waiting. No call queues. Just responsive, reliable service. It’s a small detail that says a lot about how we operate.

In a digital world, responsiveness matters more than ever. We’ve built our support model around immediacy and familiarity, because when time is tight and travellers need help, the last thing they want is to repeat their story to a stranger.

4. People, expertise, and process

Our people are our greatest asset. Every member of the ACE Travel Management ATG UK team is selected for their expertise, empathy, and drive to go the extra mile. But expertise alone isn’t enough — we back it up with clear processes that ensure consistency, compliance, and continual improvement. It’s how we deliver personal service at scale.

From travel consultants to implementation leads and account managers, we invest in ongoing training and development, ensuring that every member of the ACE Travel Management ATG UK team brings best-in-class thinking to every interaction. Our clients feel the difference.

5. Technology that works for you

The best technology doesn’t replace people—it empowers them. Our platform, TravelSpace, integrates over 30 global travel tools into one seamless environment. We make it easy for travellers to book within policy, while giving decision-makers access to the data and insights they need. From CO₂ tracking to supplier performance, we help you turn information into action.

Technology is only effective if it’s intuitive and aligned with your business goals. With TravelSpace, everything from risk management to cost control is streamlined, removing friction and freeing up your teams to focus on what matters.

6. Booking tools that fit your business

We support leading online booking tools like SAP Concur, Cytric, and Atriis, giving clients flexibility without compromising control. Whether you need a self-serve solution or a fully managed programme, we adapt our tech stack to work with your existing systems and processes, not the other way around.

Our strength lies in integration. We don’t push tools — we align with what works for you. Whether it’s adapting to internal workflows or automating approval paths, we make sure the tech fits your structure, not the other way round.

7. Data, management, and analytics

We turn data into direction. With our bespoke dashboards and reporting tools, you’ll gain full visibility over spend, traveller behaviour, and environmental impact. Our account managers work closely with you to interpret the numbers and recommend smart, strategic changes to improve your travel outcomes.

This is where insight becomes impact. We don’t just hand over reports — we analyse, advise, and act. Our clients use data not only to track performance but to influence smarter decision-making across procurement, finance, and sustainability.

8. Value for money – the ACE way

For us, value isn’t about booking the cheapest flight. It’s about making every pound count. We use predictive analytics, supplier benchmarking, and our Advantage Travel Partnership buying power to negotiate better deals, reduce leakage, and improve ROI. It’s what we call the ACE way — real savings, not just lower prices.

We believe in value you can prove. That’s why we continually track KPIs, savings performance, and policy adherence — so you can see the return on investment in real terms, not just estimates.

9. Account management done right

Every client has a dedicated account manager who doesn’t just monitor your programme — they elevate it. Our team takes a consultative approach, continuously refining strategy, recommending enhancements, and ensuring your business objectives are always reflected in your travel plan. It’s proactive, not reactive.

We don’t believe in ‘set and forget’. Our account managers are relationship-builders and problem-solvers who know how to unlock opportunities, mitigate risks, and keep your programme moving forward with confidence.

10. Implementation and onboarding

We know that a smooth onboarding experience sets the tone for long-term success. That’s why our implementation process is structured, transparent, and designed to minimise disruption. From data capture and training to stakeholder engagement and travel policy rollout, we manage every step with care and precision.

With clear timelines, dedicated project managers, and an emphasis on communication, we make implementation stress-free. We also use feedback loops throughout the onboarding process to ensure continuous improvement and early wins.

Going beyond

At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, quality isn’t optional — it’s certified. Our ISO9001 accreditation ensures that every part of our business is structured around quality assurance, continuous improvement, and client satisfaction.

We take feedback seriously. With client retention averaging over 12 years, our long-standing relationships speak volumes. We listen, we adapt, and we constantly evolve based on what our clients tell us.

And when it comes to consultancy, we’re not just here to take orders. We act as strategic partners, advising on sourcing strategies, policy design, and futureproofing your travel programme. Our role is to challenge, guide, and help you succeed.

Think You Know ACE Travel Management ATG UK?

Many people think they know what a travel management company does — but we’re here to change that. At ACE Travel Management ATG UK, we believe in doing things differently. With care, with purpose, and with your business at the centre of it all.

Because when travel is managed well, people are more productive, businesses are more efficient, and journeys become part of the bigger picture, not a distraction from it.

Let’s make business travel better. Together. 

Get in touch with the team

Cork: Top Tips for Business Travellers

Business travel can be a balancing act — navigating meetings, managing logistics, and finding moments to unwind in an unfamiliar city. 

If Cork is your next destination, you’ll find a city that blends a thriving business environment with a laid-back charm, making it one of Ireland’s most enjoyable locations for work trips. From efficient transport links to the best places for a working lunch, here’s everything you need to know to make your business trip to Cork both productive and enjoyable.

Getting around Cork efficiently

Cork is compact, which works in your favour when trying to get from meeting to meeting. The city centre is highly walkable, meaning you won’t always need to rely on transport. If you do, taxis are readily available, though it’s worth noting that ride-hailing apps are less dominant here than in other European cities. Booking a cab via a local service in advance is often the best approach.

For those needing to travel further afield, the Cork Area Commuter Rail provides quick access to business hubs outside the city, such as Little Island and Carrigtwohill. If you’re planning multiple journeys, a Leap Card will save you time and money across trains and buses.

Where to stay for maximum convenience

Selecting the right accommodation is key to a seamless business trip. If your meetings are primarily in the city centre, hotels such as The River Lee or The Metropole Hotel offer comfortable stays within walking distance of key commercial areas. For those attending events at Cork’s major business parks, such as Mahon Point, it may be more convenient to opt for hotels near the South Link Road for easy access.

Serviced apartments are also a practical option for longer stays, offering more space and home comforts while keeping you close to the city’s amenities. Many business travellers prefer this setup for the flexibility it provides.

Best spots for a working lunch or coffee meeting

Cork’s food scene is impressive, with no shortage of cafés and restaurants that cater to business travellers needing a comfortable setting for a quick meeting or a working lunch. For a relaxed yet professional atmosphere, The Farmgate Café in the English Market offers great local produce in an airy space that’s perfect for a casual business discussion.

If you’re after a high-end dining experience to impress a client, Greenes Restaurant provides a refined setting with an excellent menu. For coffee meetings, Alchemy Coffee serves expertly brewed coffee in a quiet space ideal for a brief catch-up.

Maximising productivity between meetings

Business travel isn’t just about meetings; it’s also about making the most of the time in between. If you need a quiet space to catch up on work, Republic of Work is Cork’s leading coworking hub, offering comfortable workspaces, high-speed internet, and even meeting rooms should you need a professional setting for a private discussion.

For those who prefer to work from a hotel lounge, The Montenotte Hotel provides a sophisticated space with plenty of natural light, perfect for catching up on emails before your next engagement.

Unwinding after the workday

Once meetings are wrapped up, Cork has plenty to offer those looking to unwind. If you enjoy a scenic walk, a stroll along the River Lee or through Fitzgerald’s Park is a great way to clear your head. For those interested in history, the Cork City Gaol offers an intriguing glimpse into the city’s past.

If networking over drinks is on the agenda, venues like Cask or Arthur Mayne’s provide a relaxed setting with excellent wine and cocktails. Alternatively, if you’d rather enjoy a quieter evening, The Everyman Theatre offers live performances ranging from contemporary plays to traditional Irish storytelling.

Enjoy your trip!

A business trip to Cork doesn’t have to be all work and no enjoyment. By choosing the right accommodation, planning your transport efficiently, and making time to experience a little of what the city has to offer, you can turn a standard work trip into a well-rounded experience. 

Whether it’s finding the perfect spot for a business lunch or taking in the city’s unique character after hours, Cork makes it easy to blend work with a touch of exploration.If you would like any more advice about business travel in Cork, get in touch with the team today and we’d be happy to help.

Boston: Top Tips for Business Travellers

As a global hub for finance, technology, and education, Boston attracts professionals from across the world.

If your next business trip takes you to the Massachusetts capital, knowing how to navigate the city efficiently can make all the difference. Here’s how to approach Boston with confidence, from transport insights to professional networking opportunities.

Mastering Boston’s transport system

First impressions of Boston’s streets often involve words like ‘compact’ and ‘congested.’ Driving is best avoided unless absolutely necessary—navigating the one-way systems and limited parking can turn a simple journey into a logistical headache.

Instead, embrace the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), or ‘the T’ as locals call it. This subway system is the oldest in the US and remains one of the most efficient ways to get around. Purchase a CharlieCard for seamless access across trains and buses, saving both time and money. If your meetings are within central Boston, walking is often the best mode of transport—many districts are surprisingly close together.

For those needing quick access to meetings, rideshare services and taxis are widely available, but they come at a premium during rush hours. Plan accordingly to avoid unnecessary delays.

Choosing the right accommodation

Where you stay in Boston can influence your productivity and ease of movement. The Financial District offers proximity to key business hubs, while Back Bay provides a mix of upscale hotels and cultural attractions. If you prefer a quieter setting, Cambridge—home to MIT and Harvard—offers excellent conference facilities and a short commute into the city.

When booking, check for business-friendly amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and 24-hour concierge services. Many hotels cater specifically to business travellers, providing meeting rooms and easy access to transport links.

Dining with purpose

Business lunches and networking dinners are common in Boston, and selecting the right venue can set the tone for professional discussions. The Seaport District is a prime location for waterfront dining with a corporate touch, while the North End offers a selection of traditional Italian restaurants ideal for fostering connections in a more relaxed setting.

For early morning meetings, Boston’s café culture presents excellent options. Tatte Bakery & Café or Thinking Cup provide quiet corners for a professional start to the day, complete with strong coffee and locally made pastries.

Making time for strategic networking

Beyond scheduled meetings, Boston presents numerous opportunities for professional networking. The city hosts year-round industry conferences, many taking place at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center or Hynes Convention Center. Check ahead for events aligned with your sector and plan accordingly.

For those looking to expand connections informally, networking breakfasts and after-work socials are common. Venues such as The Liberty Hotel or Yvonne’s provide stylish backdrops for casual business discussions.

Staying productive on the go

Maintaining productivity while travelling requires strategic planning. Co-working spaces such as Workbar or CIC Boston offer day passes, allowing access to quiet workspaces between meetings. Public libraries, particularly the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, also provide excellent remote working environments with free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating.

Time zone adjustments can impact performance, so schedule meetings wisely, particularly if travelling from outside North America. Utilise downtime efficiently—whether catching up on emails during a ride on the T or scheduling calls during quiet morning hours.

Making the most of your free time

Even the busiest schedule should allow for a glimpse into Boston’s cultural offerings. If time permits, a walk along the Freedom Trail provides insight into the city’s rich history, while the Boston Common offers a brief but refreshing escape from urban bustle.

For those interested in the arts, the Museum of Fine Arts or a performance at the Boston Symphony Orchestra can round off a productive day with cultural enrichment. A well-balanced trip ensures professional goals are met while also experiencing the city’s unique atmosphere.

Enjoy the trip!

Approaching Boston with a well-structured plan ensures efficiency without sacrificing the opportunity to engage with the city’s distinctive character. With strategic transport choices, carefully selected accommodation, and a keen awareness of business etiquette, you can navigate Boston seamlessly, making every moment count. Whether your focus is meetings, networking, or gaining new industry insights, Boston is a city that rewards preparation and professionalism.If you would like any more advice about business travel in Boston, get in touch with the team today and we’d be happy to help.

Zurich: Top Tips for Business Travellers

Switzerland’s financial capital, Zurich, is more than just a hub for banking and business. Beneath its polished exterior lies a city that balances corporate efficiency with a strong cultural pulse, offering business travellers a seamless blend of productivity and leisure. 

Whether you’re in Zurich for a conference, a client meeting, or an extended work trip, knowing how to navigate the city effectively can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to know to maximise your time in Zurich.

Getting around: efficient, reliable, and on time

Zurich’s public transport system is a model of Swiss precision. The city’s trams, buses, and trains are impeccably punctual, and a single ticket grants access to all three. Purchasing a Zürich Card provides unlimited travel across the city, including the trip from the airport, making it a worthwhile investment if you’re staying for more than a day.

For meetings that require a touch of discretion or flexibility, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are available, though they come at a premium. If you prefer to drive, be aware that parking in Zurich is notoriously scarce and expensive — better to rely on the efficiency of public transport whenever possible.

Where to stay: business-friendly districts

Choosing the right location for your stay can streamline your trip and cut down on unnecessary travel time. The City Centre (Altstadt) is ideal for those wanting to be close to major business districts while also enjoying Zurich’s historic charm. For a more modern setting, Zurich West offers contemporary hotels near creative industries, tech hubs, and international headquarters.

If your business meetings take you beyond the city limits, staying near Zurich’s Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof) provides excellent connections to the wider region. Many high-end business hotels in the area offer conference facilities, workspaces, and amenities tailored to professionals on the go.

Best spots for a working lunch or coffee meeting

Zurich is home to an impressive culinary scene that caters well to business travellers. For a formal setting, Kronenhalle is a historic institution where deals have been made over classic Swiss cuisine for decades. If a more contemporary approach is required, Maison Manesse offers Michelin-starred dining in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

For a more casual but still polished setting, Hiltl — the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant — offers a vibrant setting for working lunches. If you’re looking for something near financial headquarters, Restaurant Zunfthaus zur Meisen provides an elegant venue with impeccable service, ideal for client meetings.

Making the most of business facilities

Many hotels in Zurich cater specifically to business travellers, offering co-working spaces, private meeting rooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. However, if you need a change of scenery, Impact Hub Zurich provides an inspiring workspace with excellent networking opportunities. For a more exclusive setting, The Circle at Zurich Airport offers premium business lounges and state-of-the-art meeting spaces, perfect for those with tight schedules.

Exploring Zurich between meetings

If your schedule allows, take advantage of Zurich’s world-class cultural scene. The Kunsthaus Zurich is a must for art lovers, while a stroll along the Bahnhofstrasse offers luxury shopping and high-end boutiques. If you need a moment to reset, Lake Zurich provides a peaceful setting for a short walk, offering stunning views and a break from the corporate world.

For those who want to venture further, a short train ride takes you to Uetliberg, Zurich’s local mountain, where you can soak in panoramic views of the city and the Alps. Even a brief visit can provide the perfect mental refresh before your next meeting.

Staying connected and productive

Switzerland’s reputation for efficiency extends to its digital infrastructure. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and business centres, while mobile networks are fast and reliable. If you require constant connectivity, purchasing a Swiss SIM card or an eSIM is a hassle-free way to ensure uninterrupted service.

For professionals needing secure and high-speed connections, Zurich’s many co-working spaces provide a great alternative to hotel business lounges, offering reliable work environments and networking opportunities.

Enjoy your trip!

Zurich’s blend of efficiency, elegance, and business-friendly amenities makes it a standout destination for corporate travellers. By planning ahead — choosing the right transport, accommodation, and meeting spots — you can ensure a seamless and productive trip. And with a little time set aside to experience the city’s cultural and culinary offerings, your visit can be as enjoyable as it is professional.If you would like any more advice about business travel in Zurich, get in touch with the team today and we’d be happy to help.