62% Indian Companies choose Germany as the most preferred business travel destination: Synovate Study

In the current European crisis, but faring with the strongest economy, Germany continues to lead in the MICE travel destination market as a preferred choice for India's corporate sector, says a recent report on India Outbound MICE Market by Synovate Business Consulting, commissioned by German National Tourist Office India.

As per the findings of the report, mid-sized and large corporates who have organized MICE trips in Europe between 2010-11, have opted for Germany with a lead percentage of 73%, followed by U.K with 52%, France-51% and Switzerland- 45%. The leading cities of choice include Frankfurt with the maximum votes at 54% followed by Berlin at 51% and Munich at 44%.

Speaking on the reaffirmed interest in Germany Romit Theophilus, Director Sales & Marketing, GNTO said, "I am happy to report that Germany has received repeated interest from Indian outbound business travelers. This year we are also celebrating "Year of Indians in Germany' with a growth of 20.1% year on year from Indian travelers. Keeping that in mind we have implemented focused market strategy for the Indian market focusing on "Affordable Hospitality' that is the distinct reason for the resonance of this interest. Germany offers unconventional meeting facilities from the huge city vibes to culturally infused charm of the castles which are now also modern conference centers. Germany has a variety of choices for companies to be innovative in organizing their MICE trip."

German National Tourist Office (GNTO), India confirmed that the number of visitor overnights have grown by 26.2% over the corresponding period in 2010 (January ' December), highlighting an average growth of over 15% every month.

Lower hotel rates and carrier options in Europe supported by outstanding infrastructure, reliable and professional partners, state-of-the-art technology and high-quality service are reasons factoring the success of Germany as a business travel destination; the report highlights.

In 2011, Indian outbound MICE market was estimated to be around USD 550-600 million. Indian outbound travel grew strongly resulting in an outbound trip volume of 6.2 million and still on the positive scale. While 1.5-1.8 million passengers travelled outbound only for MICE. Pharmaceutical, Cement, FMCG, IT and Financial services are the major industry verticals contributing to outbound MICE sector.

Interestingly, Indian Companies are now conducting MICE trips across all the functions as a part of rewards and incentives under employee engagement and talent recognition program. Innovative experiences and events like gala dinners, wellness spa, white water rafting, etc are also forming integral part of itineraries for MICE providers.

The report highlights that Nature Tourism, Food and Dining and Cultural Tourism are important activities looked by Corporate. Germany, thus continues to attract these corporate with its placid landscapes, an intriguing culture, modern economy, great escapes etc.

Further sharing the outlook for 2012, Mr. Theophilus said, "We believe 2012 will witness an increase in Indian outbound tourism to Germany. We are upbeat that travel for Incentives will continue to grow as desirable choices for many corporate in the years to come. This year we will continue with our affordable hospitality theme and also focus on promoting "the fairytale route' in Germany which passes all the enchanting castles, town and villages from where all the famous fairytale characters have originated."