In a recent article for The Australian Financial Review, Suzi Dafnis discusses the needs of female business travellers, a growing market segment with specific demands that can be met by the hotel and travel industries. The article says, “In short, today’s female business traveller wants her hotel to cater to her needs as a business person first – fast broadband, mobile coverage in her room, a well-informed concierge and a place to eat alone without being interrupted – or alternatively, a place to entertain business colleagues.”
This is not to say, however, that they do not appreciate a room with good cosmetics and a decent hairdryer, as well as a swimming pool, space or healthy room service menu. It is explained that the female executive business traveller is a growing market segment. According to Roy Morgan, “8.3% of women have travelled by air for business in the past 12 months.”
HerBusiness CEO Suzi Dafnis stated, “the number of women in business correlates to the number of women travellers. Meetings can be handled using technology, but face to face is still important when either first meeting someone or cutting a deal, so travel is required. For those looking to advance their knowledge or to seek funding, trips overseas are going to be a part of doing business.”
In the article, Dafnis stated she enjoys time to herself in transit: “I find solace in plugging in my headset, grabbing my iPad and getting some work done knowing I’m not going to be interrupted. With Wi-Fi on many domestic flights we’ve lost that a little, but it’s pretty much still a great place to get away.” When staying in a hotel, Dafnis claimed she expects good amenities such as decent electrical and cosmetic fittings, healthy menus, but also free or reasonably priced Wi-Fi. Sofitel is an example of a hotel claiming to appeal especially to the female business traveller, through floral displays, candles, fragrance in public spaces, as well as Lanvin cosmetic products, and even health club access.
The Australian Financial Review has been heralded as the authority on business, finance and investment news in Australia. In addition to the print publication they produce online daily innovative features and sections. To read the full article, click here.
