This May, the MIDAS Travel team had the pleasure of being part of the inaugural Ground Transportation Steering Group. Hosted by our travel consortium partner, Focus Travel. This new initiative brings together Travel Management Companies, suppliers, and industry leaders with a shared goal. To strengthen collaboration, enhance service delivery, and unlock new opportunities that ultimately benefit clients.
As the first session in what promises to be an ongoing series. The event offered valuable insight into the evolving landscape of ground transportation – spanning rail, chauffeur services, and global taxi solutions.
A collaborative step forward
The steering group is designed to foster meaningful dialogue between key players in business travel, including Focus partner travel management members. By connecting travel management companies with suppliers and partners, it creates a platform to share innovation. As well as address common challenges, and identify ways to improve the travel experience from end to end.
For MIDAS Travel, participation in sessions like these ensures we remain at the forefront of industry developments. Bringing fresh thinking and tangible improvements back to our clients.
Rail travel: transformation underway
One of the key topics of discussion was the future of UK rail. In particular, the role of Great British Railways (GBR). Regardless of political outcomes, GBR is expected to remain a central feature of the rail network. With plans to unify most UK train operators under a single umbrella (with the exception of several privately owned services).
This is a move towards a more cohesive system supported by consistent national branding. And signals a shift towards improved coordination, better connectivity, and a more streamlined passenger experience.
In addition to structural change, there are encouraging advancements in onboard technology and comfort.
Highlights include:
- Starlink connectivity being introduced on selected London-Glasgow routes with LNER
- Wireless phone charging available on Avanti West Coast services
- Enhanced first-class offerings, redefining premium rail travel
Together, these upgrades underline a broader commitment to making rail. And a more attractive and efficient choice for business travellers.
Chauffeur services: expanding the definition of premium travel
The session also explored the capabilities of modern chauffeur services. Which go far beyond traditional airport transfers. Today’s executive travel solutions can support a wide range of requirements. Including private jet transfers and even water-based transport such as water taxis.
Our trusted partner, TBR, demonstrated the scale and reliability of premium chauffeur services on a global level. With a centre of excellence in Dubai and an impressive 99.4% punctuality rate. TBR exemplifies the high standards that clients can expect for time-critical journeys.
This level of flexibility and dependability reinforces the growing role of chauffeur services. Delivering seamless, end-to-end travel experiences.
Global taxi solutions: powered by technology
Technology continues to play a vital role in transforming ground transportation. Particularly in the global taxi sector. CMAC showcased a range of solutions designed to enhance convenience, transparency, and accessibility for travellers.
Key features include:
- Real-time driver availability, improving responsiveness and planning
- Online booking tools and mobile app access, simplifying the user experience
- Flexible transport options, from minicabs to coach hire
These innovations are helping to create more efficient and user-friendly travel solutions. As well as giving clients greater control over their journeys.
Looking ahead for ground transportation
The Ground Transportation Steering Group represents an exciting opportunity for the industry to collaborate more closely and innovate more effectively. MIDAS Travel is committed to staying actively involved. Ensuring we bring the latest insights, partnerships, and advancements directly to our clients.
By working alongside trusted partners and other travel management companies, we are continually evolving our offering. Delivering smarter, more connected, and more reliable ground transportation solutions.
Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to explore the future of travel.
Ground transportation for your travel programme
At MIDAS Travel, we provide truly end-to-end travel management. Supporting every stage of your journey, from door to departure, hotel to conference, and everything in between. By integrating tailored ground transportation solutions into your travel programme, we ensure seamless connections. As well as greater efficiency, and an enhanced traveller experience throughout. Our expertise and supplier partnerships enable us to design smarter, more joined-up travel strategies that work for your organisation.
USEFUL LINKS
- Why travel managers need to be booking ground transportation – MIDAS Travel Blog
- What we do – MIDAS Travel Website
- Full steam ahead for Great British Railways as first branded train unveiled – Government Website
