TravelTech Show 2025 highlights AI as the leading tech investment for travel companies, with 64% increasing budgets and nearly half boosting AI spend by 10%. Key benefits include enhanced customer experience and reduced costs. The event runs 25–26 June at ExCeL London, showcasing the latest travel technology trends and solutions.
As the travel sector continues to evolve through technological innovation, a new survey conducted ahead of the TravelTech Show 2025 reveals a clear trend: artificial intelligence (AI) remains the top priority for travel operators’ technology budgets.
The event, set to take place on 25–26 June 2025 at ExCeL London, is expected to spotlight this trend through a comprehensive programme of conferences, exhibitions, and networking opportunities.
Increased investment in technology across the travel sector
Data from the March 2025 survey of 94 travel company representatives indicates that nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents will be increasing their technology budget over the next 12 months. Of these, one-fifth plan an increase of up to 20%.
AI leads technology investment priorities for the second consecutive year. When asked to identify the top three technologies targeted for investment in the coming year, 52% of respondents selected AI, placing it firmly in first place. Booking and reservation systems follow in second place with 22%, marking a drop from 32% in 2024. Another 22% mention additional technologies, placing them in joint second. In contrast, mobile and app technologies, which held third place in 2024 at 20%, are no longer among the top responses.
Substantial growth in AI-specific investment
Investment in AI is increasing significantly, with 42% of respondents stating they will increase AI-related spending by 10% within the year. An additional 16% plan to raise their AI investment by as much as 50%.
This upward trend is also reflected in plans to enhance online presence using AI-driven solutions. More than a quarter (26%) of travel operators are investing in AI chatbots to streamline customer interaction. Another 21% are improving their booking platforms, while 18% are focusing on content and social media platforms.
Customer experience and cost efficiency drive AI adoption
According to the survey, improved customer experience and reduced operational costs are the most commonly cited benefits of AI, with 24% of respondents identifying each as a key driver for adoption.
Despite the enthusiasm, a cautious approach remains. While many companies show strong interest in AI, 30% are still in the testing phase, conducting internal focus groups with key customers. A further 25% have not yet implemented AI in their operations.
Concerns remain around content quality and accuracy (31%), data privacy and cybersecurity (15%), and the ability to keep pace with rapid technological developments (14%).
Quote from event director Nimet Sayeed
Commenting on the findings, TravelTech Show event director Nimet Sayeed says:
“It is encouraging to see travel companies continuing to plan for increased investment in technology platforms and solutions over the year ahead. AI continues to claim the budget top spot, but perhaps more interesting to note is the commitment to investing in research around it.
Unquestionably AI is accelerating at pace and whilst many operators are keen to keep up, they are also focused on taking the time to ensure the tools they do select are the best fit for their business model, operations and, crucially, their customers. Whether that be as booking assistants, or to support customer service, marketing and reporting to name just a few applications.”
TravelTech Show 2025: A platform for innovation and collaboration
Now in its 22nd year, the TravelTech Show brings together senior commercial, digital, and marketing decision-makers with innovative B2B travel technology providers. The 2025 edition builds on the momentum from previous years, particularly the AI-driven focus of the 2024 event.
This year’s event will once again offer a robust agenda of conferences, speaker sessions, and networking opportunities, aimed at helping companies deepen their understanding of AI and other emerging technologies. Visitors can engage in 1-2-1 appointments through the event’s official platform, facilitating connections with buyers and decision-makers.
How to register and contact details
The TravelTech Show is free to attend for travel technology professionals who are responsible for or involved in their company’s tech strategy. Consultants helping businesses select technology solutions may also attend at no cost. However, suppliers must purchase a visitor pass. The organisers retain the final right to approve registrations.
- Dates: 25 – 26 June 2025
- Venue: ExCeL London
- Website: www.traveltech-show.com
About TravelTech Show
Previously known as Travel Technology Europe, the TravelTech Show is a leading face-to-face exhibition dedicated to uniting Europe’s top marketing, digital, and commercial technology specialists in the travel industry. Since its acquisition by Northstar Media in 2019 and subsequent integration with the Phocuswright family in 2020, the event has evolved to reflect the changing landscape of travel technology.
From a virtual programme in 2021 to a return to physical events at ExCeL London in 2022, the show has consistently attracted a high-calibre audience and top-tier exhibitors. The 2023 and 2024 events highlighted growing participation and a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, which continues to shape the future of travel innovation.
Pallavi Singal is the Vice President of Content at ztudium, where she leads innovative content strategies and oversees the development of high-impact editorial initiatives. With a strong background in digital media and a passion for storytelling, Pallavi plays a pivotal role in scaling the content operations for ztudium’s platforms, including Businessabc, Citiesabc, and IntelligentHQ, Wisdomia.ai, MStores, and many others. Her expertise spans content creation, SEO, and digital marketing, driving engagement and growth across multiple channels. Pallavi’s work is characterised by a keen insight into emerging trends in business, technologies like AI, blockchain, metaverse and others, and society, making her a trusted voice in the industry.
