English
Revealing the concerns Security Travel and HR Executives encounter the most
Philadelphia
International SOS, the world’s leading medical and security services provider, and Control Risks, the global business risk consultancy, recentlysurveyed nearly 300 security, travel and HR managers, along with others.
They cited civil unrest (22 percent), opportunistic crime (18 percent), and terrorism (16 percent) as issues that are of significant concern. Still, of those questioned, 78 percent reported that their companies had increased travel in 2012—and 59 percent expected it to increase further throughout 2013.
At the same time, businesses are expected to spend 4.6 percent more on travel than in 2012—bringing U.S. business travel spending $266.7 billion, according to the Global Business Travel Association.Both international travel and group travel are expected to rise in 2013.
“It’s clear that global instability is still on the minds of those charged with the safety of their travelers and expatriates, but we’re seeing that those concerns are no match for the opportunities now opening up with commercial opportunities further afield, including emerging markets and remote locations,” said Tim Daniel,Group Executive Vice President for International SOS. “We’re seeing a trend that’s both positive and, apparently, long-term. There’s no question businesses are allocating more money to their travel budgets.”
Respondents to the survey cited the Middle East and North Africa as presenting the greatest risk to their employees (38 percent). Thirty-one percent of respondents cited Latin America. The responses were similar to those collected during the same period in 2012.
“Of course there are still areas in which it’s a challenge to work, but businesses are savvy these days,” added Daniel. “They’re far better at preparing employees, keeping them connected, and ensuring their health and safety. Technology has brought us a long way, especially with the advance of travel tracking solutions, apps, and social media.”
International SOS and Control Risks conducted the survey during a client programthataddressed key political and travel security risks emerging over the course of the coming year which are likely to shape the environment for organizations operating internationally.
The complete results of the survey are now available on the Dialogues on Duty of Care (http://www.dialoguesondutyofcare.com/).
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Notes to Editors
About the International SOS Group of Companies The International SOS Group of Companies is in the business of saving lives, protecting your global workforce from health and security threats. Wherever you are, we deliver customised health, security risk management and wellbeing solutions to fuel your growth and productivity. In the event of extreme weather, an epidemic or a security incident, we provide an immediate response providing peace of mind. Our innovative technology and medical and security expertise focus on prevention, offering real-time, actionable insights and on-the-ground quality delivery. We help protect your people, your organisation's reputation, as well as support your compliance reporting needs. By partnering with us, organisations can fulfil their Duty of Care responsibilities, while empowering business resilience, continuity and sustainability. Founded in 1985, the International SOS Group, headquartered in London & Singapore, is trusted by 12,000 organisations, including the majority of the Fortune 500, as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions and NGOs. 12,000 multicultural medical, security and logistics experts stand with you to provide support & assistance from over 1,000 locations in 90 countries, 24/7, 365 days.
To protect your workforce, we are at your fingertips: www.internationalsos.com
