It may seem strange for us to be dishing out advice about what to look out for in a Travel Management Company (TMC), but there’s a good reason that we are. There have been several incidents of fraud involving local travel agents that have caused concern amongst clients recently. We’re stepping up to provide clarity and guidelines for companies seeking trustworthy TMCs to manage their travel, and it’s not just a punt for us; it’s useful information that we hope will guide better discernment to prevent disappointment and loss.

1. Choose a trustworthy partner

As we continue to witness the closure of companies we knew and loved, it’s increasingly important to partner with companies who have gone the distance and who are most likely to weather the storms. This is where Rennies BCD Travel comes in, offering the stability and reliability that comes with our extensive experience and proven track record in the travel industry. That’s why we go shoulder-to-shoulder with our clients, providing them with the support they need to navigate the ever-changing landscape of business travel.

As a minimum, your TMC must subscribe to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA) members. These bodies regulate the industry standards in safety, security, and efficiency, which speak to ethical business practices and professionalism through their easily recognisable logos – their stamp of authenticity.

For example, Delta Airlines recently removed access to its products and services if a travel agency is not accredited with ARC for US-based agents or IATA for non-US-based agents. 

2. Know what you need from your travel partner

It’s important to choose a TMC that puts customers first to create travel management solutions that your employees will support. They should be able to connect your travel programme to your company mission and purpose and deliver bespoke solutions for your unique requirements. When choosing, consider:

• Sector-specific expertise: Your TMC should demonstrate broad experience in managing travel for your specific organisational or sector requirements.
• Integration into your business systems: Your TMC should be able to seamlessly integrate with your existing business systems, such as expense management and HR platforms, to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
• Travel policy compliance: A reliable TMC should help you develop, implement, and enforce a comprehensive travel policy that aligns with your company’s goals and values.
• Robust travel management technology: Look for a TMC that offers advanced technology solutions, such as online booking tools, mobile apps, and real-time reporting, to enhance the travel experience for your employees and provide valuable insights for your organisation.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I): Choose a TMC that shares your commitment to DE&I and actively works to promote these values within their own organisation and across the travel industry.
• Prioritise sustainability: As businesses increasingly prioritise sustainability, it’s crucial to partner with a TMC that can help you achieve your environmental goals. Their sustainable travel solutions should include carbon footprint tracking, eco-friendly travel options, and support for carbon offsetting initiatives, helping you reduce your travel programme’s environmental impact.
• Global reach and supplier partnerships: Your TMC should have international networks that support your global business travellers.
• Supplier programme expertise: A knowledgeable TMC should have the expertise to negotiate competitive rates, secure preferred partnerships, and manage your supplier programmes effectively.

Our advice is simple. Choose a TMC that is CONNECTED, CONSISTENT and COMPLIANT. A company like Rennies BCD Travel is built on integrity, resilience, and a genuine desire to contribute to the greater good. Deal with people who persevere in the face of challenges, learn from failures, and are willing to take calculated risks. Choose a TMC that goes beyond the borders of mediocrity and reaches out with purpose to create an enduring impact, just as we have done for the past 70 years and will continue to do for generations to come.