CWT (company)

CWT, formerly known as Carlson Wagonlit Travel, is a global company specializing in business travel management, meeting and events, and travel technology services. The company provides integrated travel solutions to large corporations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), government institutions, and non-governmental organizations around the world. With its headquarters in Paris, France, CWT operates in more than 150 countries and territories, employing thousands of people globally.

History

CWT was established in 1994 as a joint venture between Carlson Companies, a large privately-held company in the United States with interests in travel, hotel, and hospitality industries, and Wagonlit Travel, a European travel company with a strong presence in business travel management. The partnership aimed to create a global leader in the corporate travel industry by combining the strengths of both entities in different markets.

Over the years, CWT has expanded its services beyond traditional travel management to include meetings and events management, a suite of travel technology products for both travelers and travel managers, and specialized services for industries like energy, resources, and marine travel. The company has also made significant investments in digital technology to improve the booking experience, travel safety, and policy compliance.

Services

CWT offers a broad range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its clients. These include:

• Corporate Travel Management: Providing comprehensive travel management solutions, including booking, expense management, and policy compliance, to help companies control costs and support their travelers.
• Meetings and Events: Planning and executing corporate meetings, incentives, conferences, and events of all sizes, from small meetings to large international conferences.
• Travel Technology: Offering innovative technology solutions, such as mobile apps and online booking tools, to enhance the travel experience for both travelers and travel managers.
• Specialized Travel Services: Catering to the unique needs of specific industries, such as energy, resources, and marine sectors, with tailored travel management solutions.

Digital Transformation

In recent years, CWT has focused on digital transformation to stay ahead in the competitive travel management industry. This includes the development of mobile applications that provide travelers with real-time information and tools to manage their trips more effectively. The company has also invested in data analytics to offer personalized travel recommendations and insights to its clients.

Sustainability

CWT is committed to sustainability and responsible business practices. The company works to reduce the environmental impact of travel, promote sustainable travel options, and support the well-being of its employees and the communities in which it operates.

Challenges and Opportunities

The travel industry faces numerous challenges, including economic fluctuations, geopolitical tensions, and the impact of global events such as pandemics. CWT, like other companies in the sector, must navigate these challenges while seizing opportunities for growth, particularly in emerging markets and through technological innovation.

Conclusion

CWT remains a key player in the global travel management industry, offering a wide range of services to meet the evolving needs of its clients. Through its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer service, CWT continues to shape the future of business travel.