Build Strong Business Travel Management Company Relationships
Key Takeaways:
- 2025 is the “quiet period” before the 2026 RFP surge—making it the ideal time for businesses to build a strong relationship with a business travel management company (TMC) and refine travel strategies.
- Early engagement with a TMC secures priority support and tailored solutions, helping companies avoid rushed, generic responses when the competitive RFP cycle hits.
- Strong TMC partnerships drive long-term value by aligning with business goals like cost control, traveler satisfaction, duty of care, and sustainability—positioning companies to succeed when market demand spikes.
2025 is the time to build a strong relationship with your business travel management company. If your business doesn’t have one, you’re definitely missing out on saving money and time.
Calm Before the RFP Storm
Many look at 2024 as the year of recalibration; therefore, 2025 should be the year of preparation—especially for business travel managers eyeing a crowded RFP (request for proposal) landscape in 2026. Business travel is rebounding with renewed complexity, and forward-thinking travel buyers recognize that now is the ideal window to engage with travel management companies (TMCs). Waiting until the surge hits risks rushed decisions and no-bid responses from TMCs stretched thin.
At Adelman Travel, we already see signs of a major RFP cycle approaching. From conversations with suppliers to shifts in TMC sales trends, the indicators are clear: 2026 will be highly competitive. That’s why 2025 is critical—this is your “quiet period,” a chance to build meaningful relationships and refine your travel program strategy before the storm arrives.
Why Early Engagement Matters with Your Business Travel Management Company
TMCs are recalibrating their resources. Sales and account management teams prioritize clients who engage early, communicate clearly, and value collaboration. This is an opportunity for travel buyers to get on a TMC’s radar—not just as a potential client, but as a strategic business partner.
By starting the conversation now, you’re more likely to:
- Secure a place in the TMC’s pipeline ahead of next year’s surge.
- Customize solutions that align with your company’s culture, traveler profiles, and tech stack.
- Leverage insights from TMC experts to fine-tune your program design and policy language before RFPs go live.
- Avoid rushed timelines, limiting options, or leading to templated, less strategic responses.
Building the Foundation for Stronger TMC Relationships
This phase isn’t about contracts—it’s about connection. Use 2025 to explore compatibility: Does the business travel management company align with your values? Can it scale with your growth? Do they demonstrate transparency, innovation, and a client-first mindset?
Adelman’s client-first sourcing philosophy means we don’t just respond to RFPs—we co-create business travel solutions with our clients. That process starts with meaningful dialogue, not paperwork. When clients engage with us early, we can offer more than a standard response—we bring ideas, data, and a long-term strategy.
A Business Travel Management Company That Aligns Your Strategic Sourcing Goals
Proactive travel procurement isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about building a travel ecosystem that supports company-wide goals. By investing in supplier relationship management now, travel managers and procurement leaders can ensure their TMC partnership will support key pillars like cost control, duty of care, traveler satisfaction, and sustainability.
The market is evolving quickly, and the companies that treat 2025 as a planning and partnership year will be best positioned to act decisively in 2026.
Don’t wait for the storm—start the conversation now.
The RFP storm is coming. But those who build early alliances with trusted corporate travel partners like Adelman will weather it—and likely come out ahead.
Let’s talk now, while the skies are still clear. Get in touch with our corporate travel experts now.