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Several themes are shaping the future of employee relocation, assignments and business travel. These are:
- Increased focus on sustainability: ESG standards will continue to influence relocation, with more emphasis on reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable living choices.
- Flexible housing options: As rental markets become more competitive, companies may need to offer a wider range of housing options, including suburban and commuter areas, to accommodate employees' needs while remaining within budget.
- Digital transformation: The relocation process will increasingly rely on digital tools and data analytics, enabling more precise and efficient planning while keeping costs down.
- Cost control: Companies will continue to explore ways to reduce the overall cost of relocation, whether by helping employees downsize before they move, negotiating better deals with landlords in less central locations, or nurturing long-term relationships with accommodation providers.
Here we explore how industry experts expect these themes to play out over the next year.
- Using technology to manage mobility programmes better
Overall, 46% of companies are looking to increase the use of technology, according to
Vialto Partners’ recent research ‘
Mobility (R)evolution’. In 2018, only 4% of companies stated they use innovative technology to support employee experience, compared to 46% today. In two years’ time, this is predicted to increase again to 63%. The report says predictive analytics are the key to staying ahead of the curve. While only 12% of companies surveyed currently use it to shape their mobility programmes, this number is expected to grow.
“We’re looking at using artificial intelligence to help analyse someone’s skills against the government rules for that type of worker,” says Claire Pepper, partner and business travel leader for EMEA, Vialto Partners.
Looking ahead to 2025, the integration of technology will continue to play a significant role in transforming global mobility. “We’re likely to see more advancements in AI and machine learning, not only to streamline relocation processes, but also to improve the employee experience with personalised support and real-time data insights,” says Kim Krollman, EVP strategic solutions of
OWL, a collaborative marketplace for short-term housing, which was shortlisted for Best Serviced Apartment Provider and Excellence in Technology in the
Think Global People and Relocate Awards 2024. “Companies will also continue investing in digital solutions to manage compliance, track global assignments, and enhance the overall mobility lifecycle.”
- A greater focus on health and safety amid global turmoil
The new data-driven approach is particularly valuable in regions prone to political instability. Early warnings about potential unrest can give companies the time they need to move employees out or make other necessary preparations. “Analytics can also be immensely helpful in a crisis, as well as contingency planning for political and policy changes,” says Claire Pepper.
Indeed, health and safety and compliance are critical when it comes to duty of care, says Kabiru Onikoyi, director of global services EME/APAC at 3Sixty, and good quality information can be invaluable. “When there were riots in Nairobi in Kenya, which completely disrupted social cohesion in the city, we were able to help clients make contingency plans,” he says. “It might be around advice to leave or sit tight and stock up on provisions in preparation. Critical intelligence in advance can be invaluable in tertiary locations.”
With escalating tensions in Southeast Asia, the war between Ukraine and Russia in Europe, the ongoing Middle East conflict and the increasing threat of terrorism and piracy in the Red Sea disrupting supply chains, there are countless examples of how essential travel poses a risk to personnel.
“In addition, businesses are navigating the ongoing risk of pandemics and infectious diseases, such as the spread of mpox or the deadly Marburg virus, as well as political instability impacting certain wider markets too,” says Cliff Thoburn, global head of intelligence, RMI Global Solutions.
Closer to home, cybercrime and general criminality also pose risks to many companies that need monitoring, evaluating and managing. RMI Global Solutions Security Services monitors and evaluates risks and threats globally using a bespoke risk management methodology, which enables its clients to conduct commercial operations in high- and medium-threat countries.
While some organisations have dedicated bookers, security specialists and organisers who can draw on an organic understanding of the risks and threats presented by geopolitical instability, most businesses do not have the capacity for an effective internal intelligence and security operation, says Cliff Thoburn. “However, a cursory glance at travel guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office or State Department Travel Advisories, or even online news, is not enough to protect your employees and operations. You need to really understand the macro and micro-level risks posed by threats and how to mitigate them.”
He says that outsourcing can be beneficial for many businesses. Your goal should be identifying a partner who can deconstruct and demystify these threats and risks for you. “A focus on health and safety culture in large organisations means that all too often security and protection are an afterthought, or not considered at all,” he says. “In an increasingly dangerous world, this isn’t an area that should be ignored. Conduct your due diligence, choose wisely and have potential partners evidence how they are the right for you. One size never fits all.”
- Using quality data to plan and manage market trends
Good quality data also helps clients make informed choices, whether it is about optimising budgets, understanding market trends or using their budgets most effectively.
Claire Pepper points to the rise of long-term remote work and more flexible working patterns, where employers will need to move their work to people rather than the other way round.
“It became more normal because of the pandemic, but it is also driven by the skills gap in some countries, the war for good talent and the cost of living here at home,” she says. “In our
Mobility Agility study, 54% of our respondents said they have either introduced or are planning to introduce a global policy for managing long-term or indefinite remote working.”
Service providers are also using data to analyse property availability, rent fluctuations and employee preferences to make informed decisions and help manage clients’ expectations. This proactive approach can help businesses anticipate housing trends and adjust relocation budgets accordingly.
“By integrating real-time data and predictive analytics into the relocation process, employers can offer tailored advice to employees about where to live, what to expect in terms of rent and how to navigate local property markets,” says Simon Johnston, CEO of
Icon. “This helps create a smoother relocation experience, reducing employee stress and ensuring that the move supports both their personal and professional needs.”
- Continuing rental affordability struggles in major cities
There is now increased demand for flexible housing solutions that cater to diverse needs, such as extended-stay options and fully serviced accommodation. This reflects an increased preference for choice and convenience, allowing employees to move seamlessly between different locations.
“In recent years, we've seen a shift in global mobility driven by changing workforce expectations, technological advancements and a growing focus on flexibility,” says Kim Krollman of OWL. “The rise of remote and hybrid work has enabled companies to rethink traditional relocation models, with a greater emphasis on short-term assignments, project-based mobility and virtual expatriates.
“Sustainability is another key trend we anticipate gaining momentum,” she says. “Organisations are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact and this will influence how mobility programmes are designed. Whether through eco-friendly accommodation options or reducing the carbon footprint of international moves, sustainability will be a priority for companies and mobility providers alike.”
She said the organisation has implemented these strategies because it believes that sustainability is not just an industry trend – it is a necessity.
Related articles from Relocate Global
- Affordability issues in rental markets
Liam Bailey, global head of
Knight Frank's research department, says that property in many large cities in Europe and Asia has become very expensive to rent.
“London's experience is quite typical of most successful big cities,” he says. “They are all struggling with housing market affordability. I was in Paris recently, talking to people based there, and there were similar concerns around the cost of living and cost of accommodation.”
One exception is the very top of the London market, where sales have been slow. This in turn has led to prime properties being rented out. “The top end of the London market has been sticky over the past couple of years and that has meant there are quite a lot more expensive rental properties available,” he says. “At that particular end of the market, rents haven't really been rising rapidly and it has been more of a tenants’ market.”
- The merging of business travel and corporate relocation
One of the most significant drivers behind surging demand for short-term corporate housing is the shift toward hybrid work models and globally distributed workforces. With many employees no longer tied to a single location, companies are maximising business travel to support hybrid working. Short-term corporate housing offers flexibility, allowing employees to stay closer to headquarters or project locations without committing to long-term rentals or hotels.
“We've seen businesses increasingly leverage corporate housing to support temporary relocations, project-based assignments and flexible travel arrangements,” Kabiru Onikoyi of
3Sixty says. This trend is expected to continue growing, particularly in regions like Asia and Africa.
Another key trend is the merging of business travel and corporate relocation. As companies increasingly assign employees to short-term projects or temporary relocation, the lines between traditional business travel and longer-term relocations are blurring. The rise of extended-stay products, particularly in emerging markets like India and South Africa, is fuelling this convergence.
Travellers also now expect more personalised experiences, from choosing their amenities to customising their stay. This trend mirrors the shift already seen in leisure travel. “Guests are now looking for more than just a bed and a safe location; they want a personalised travel experience that reflects their unique needs and preferences,” Kabiru Onikoyi explains. “For global organisations, there are the ongoing challenges of balancing cost containment with high-quality accommodation as we move into 2025.”
- Huge new investment in emerging markets: Asia and Africa
Asia and Africa are seeing a surge in business travel and corporate relocation, particularly in cities like Bangalore and Cape Town. India, with its young, tech-savvy workforce and cost advantages, has become an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand their operations or relocate talent. Cape Town, while historically a leisure destination, is rapidly gaining prominence as a hub for business travel and relocation.
“India’s talent pool and low cost of doing business are major draws for multinational companies,” Kabiru Onikoyi of 3Sixty says. “Microsoft and Amazon are building in Bangalore and the government is offering tax incentives for companies to operate out of these markets in English-speaking countries.
“Similarly, in Africa, cities like Cape Town are emerging as key players in the corporate travel landscape, despite the challenges posed by volatile pricing, leisure travel demands and supply shortages.”
As companies look for ways to balance cost containment, the concept of co-sharing has emerged as a creative solution. In regions with large intern populations and tight housing budgets, such as India, co-sharing has become a viable option. This model allows multiple interns or employees to share a multi-bedroom apartment with communal living spaces like kitchens and lounges.
Unlike co-living, which is more established in Western markets, co-sharing focuses on providing affordable yet compliant housing options for corporate interns and young professionals. This approach not only reduces costs, but also fosters collaboration and community among interns, many of whom thrive in shared spaces.
“Co-sharing is a completely different product,” Kabiru Onikoyi says. “It is essentially sharing a four-bedroom apartment with four different guests of the same gender, with a communal living area and a communal kitchen. It works well for companies with high-volume, low-budget constraints and appeals to younger workers.”
- A new government in the United States
The United States has a significant impact on Europe and the UK in terms of investment markets, interest rate setting, economic fortunes and trading agreements. The recent election result will mean organisations now need to adjust to the policies of a new leader across the Atlantic.
“The 2024 US presidential election holds significant global importance, even in a year when around half the world’s population are voting in elections,” says Lindsay James, investment strategist at Quilter Investors. “The result has far-reaching implications for international relations, particularly given the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as for economic policies at a time of high government debt. As the world’s largest economy and a key player in international politics, the direction the US takes can influence global markets, trade agreements and geopolitical strategies.”
Trump’s threat to impose tariffs of at least 6% on Chinese imports and of between 10–20% on all other foreign goods, as well as reduce the flow of people into the US and cut taxes, will all have an impact on the global economy.
- Upskilling and reskilling the workforce to use cloud and AI
Using cloud and AI technology enables teams in different geographies and time zones to work together effectively. This means talent can be found across the globe.
“At OWL, these elements are at the core of our operations,” says Kim Krollman. “Our team works remotely across multiple regions, relying on cloud technology and platforms like Microsoft Teams for seamless collaboration and secure information storage,” she says. “The cloud is also fundamental to our business, enabling our global members to connect, upload, and manage property photos and information, making it a key driver of our marketplace’s success.”
She says cloud technology is also helpful in ensuring the security of data. By leveraging secure cloud infrastructure, OWL is able to keep information safe while offering easy access to the global team and partners.
“AI has become an indispensable ally in our day-to-day operations, enhancing efficiency and streamlining processes,” she says. “AI will continue to be pivotal as we evolve, enabling us to offer more advanced technologies and features to all the companies in our marketplace.”
- Global mobility will widen its scope
Global mobility will become more complex, but also more essential to companies’ operations as they look to grow their market presence internationally. This is the prediction for 2025 from
The State of Global Mobility 2025 by
Localyze, which also suggests people teams will be looking for external support and more sophisticated technology to handle the workload.
Visa and permit renewals are still a top priority and more than half of respondents (54%) confirmed they relocate talent to existing hubs. These long-term global mobility cases have always been on the agenda, but predominantly viewed through the lens of talent acquisition.
“As we look ahead to 2025, businesses are stepping into a new era of stability,” says Hanna Asmussen, CEO and co-founder of Localyze. “Expansion and international growth are slowly coming back onto the table and global mobility budgets are slightly increasing instead of shrinking. Leading companies are renewing their investment in both short- and long-term mobility programmes and crafting innovative policies for hybrid, flexible work.”
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