Rail Strategy from SAP Concur Meets the Changing Needs of Business Travelers in EMEA

In a world increasingly conscious of environmental impact, business travelers are focused on sustainable modes of travel. SAP Concur, a leading provider of travel and expense management solutions, is poised to transform rail travel in the EMEA region for its customers through an innovative approach that acknowledges the growing significance of rail as a preferred mode of transportation.

SAP Concur completed a seamless transition of their customers in the UK, along with TMC partners, in February 2024, to the updated Trainline Global API.  As part of the evolution of Concur Travel, SAP Concur have announced further rail connections in their solution roadmap ranging from Amtrak, Deutsche Bahn and Swiss Rail all to be delivered within 2024.

The Rail Renaissance in EMEA

In 2022, rail passenger journeys in the EU increased by 50.9 % compared with 2021 and 75.9 % compared with 2020 [Eurostat]. The recent EU regulation aiming to reduce carbon emissions by 90% by 2030 further underscores the importance of rail travel, with sustainability emerging as a key driver in choosing this mode of transportation.

Despite the significant surge in rail traffic, online booking tools (OBT) currently capture a small share of rail bookings. This low adoption rate is attributed to a trifecta of challenges: Fragmented content, varying country rules and regulations, and challenging interlining. The imperative is clear - a robust and connected rail foundation is a necessity for business travel across EMEA, and the evolution of Concur Travel offers the right platform to meet the demand.

SAP Concur is Paving the Way for Seamless, Sustainable, and Inclusive Rail Journeys

• Rail Companies and Rail Countries: Recognizing the diversity of European rail carriers, SAP Concur is focusing on countries rather than specific providers. This approach allows for collaboration with multiple carriers within each country, promoting inclusivity.

• Ticketing: Acknowledging the varied ticketing landscape, SAP Concur ensures compatibility with electronic tickets, while also accommodating other ticketing types based on regional preferences.The flexibility of directing bookings to both Travel Management Companies (TMCs) and Trainline for fulfilment enhances SAP Concur's commercial agility, ensuring seamless and efficient processing.

• Payment Diversity: Embracing diverse payment methods, including On Account, Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) card payments, and virtual card payments, SAP Concur ensures accessibility and convenience for all travelers.

• Sustainability Integration: By incorporating CO2 data into Concur Travel, SAP Concur empowers users to make sustainable choices. This aligns with the broader vision of a travel experience that transcends borders and prioritizes eco-friendly options.

• Domestic, Inbound, and Cross-Border Rail: SAP Concur's strategy encompasses the nuances of domestic travel, addresses challenges associated with inbound passengers, and paves the way for seamless cross-border rail experiences. The ability to compare Air vs Rail enhances the platform's versatility.

Building a Sustainability Strategy into Your Travel Policy

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword, it’s a mandate. From the C-Suite to the front lines, travel leaders are encouraged and pushed to build sustainability into their programs and the choices they offer.  

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Innovation and Vision: Navigating Challenges for a Smoother Journey

“SAP Concur envisions a future where rail travel is seamlessly integrated into the global travel experience,” said Paul Dear, Regional Vice President, Concur Travel Suppliers at SAP Concur. “The focus is on erasing borders, facilitating diverse payment methods, and providing comprehensive reporting capabilities for a holistic travel management experience. Concur Travel aims to be a leader in sustainability, enabling users to make informed choices both online and in their mobile app that align with environmental goals.”

Andrew Cruttenden, General Manager of Trainline Partner Solutions, said: “We’re delighted to be partners with SAP Concur, simplifying the complex world of rail ticketing to provide a seamless booking option for business travelers. With the breadth of our carrier relationships across Europe, together we can help provide the sustainable travel option of rail which is becoming increasingly important as corporate awareness of the carbon footprint of their business travel continues to grow.”

SAP Concur's commitment to redefining rail travel in EMEA is not just a response to current trends but a forward-looking vision. As the rail industry gears up for unprecedented growth, SAP Concur's innovative approach promises a future where rail travel seamlessly integrates with corporate travel needs, making sustainability and inclusivity core tenets of the journey.