In an era where business travel has become increasingly demanding, South African corporate travellers are embracing wellness as a crucial part of their journey to enhance productivity and reduce stress.
For many companies, wellness initiatives have moved beyond being a ‘nice-to-have’ to being a core part of corporate culture, Dr Nadine de Freitas, Wellness Strategist and Executive Director of the South African Spa Association, told Travel News.
Corporate wellness is no longer confined to fitness centres or spas. It encompasses a holistic approach to health, focusing on both physical and mental well-being.
“Long travel hours and demanding schedules have led to a growing recognition of the importance of balanced travel experiences,” said De Freitas.
What corporate travellers seek
According to De Freitas, corporate travellers are looking for wellness experiences that are both accessible and impactful. They prioritise:
- Convenience: Flexible fitness facilities, such as 24-hour gyms or in-room workout options, allow travellers to maintain routines despite packed schedules.
- Mental health support: Mindfulness activities, breathing exercises and even guided meditation are gaining popularity as tools to manage stress and improve focus.
- Balanced nutrition: Travellers increasingly seek menus featuring nutritious, low-glycemic options to sustain energy and cognitive function.
“Our travellers specifically request rooms with natural light and memory foam pillows to ensure quality sleep,” added Bonnie Smith, GM of FCM and Corporate Traveller South Africa.
Corporate investment in wellness
Companies are stepping up to meet these wellness demands.
“Corporates are investing more in wellness, knowing it maximises the return on travel. They recognise that supporting employees’ well-being enhances productivity and loyalty,” Steve Uria, Wellness Director at Newmark Hotels & Reserves, told Travel News.
Smith concurred, noting an uptick in wellness budgets: “From automatic business-class upgrades for long flights to selecting hotels with superior wellness amenities, companies understand that a well-rested traveller delivers better results.”
The role of accommodation
Hotels and resorts are also responding to the trend by tailoring their offerings to corporate travellers. From wellness retreats to executive suites equipped with ergonomic furniture, properties now prioritise relaxation and rejuvenation alongside productivity.
“At Newmark Hotels & Reserves, wellness is an integral pillar. Our properties offer tailored experiences, from spa treatments to transformative workshops in breathwork and nutrition, designed to create long-term health benefits,” said Uria.
Overcoming challenges
Despite the growing emphasis on wellness, incorporating it into business travel is not without hurdles. Time constraints and logistical challenges are two of the main obstacles negatively impacting the uptake.
“The biggest challenge is balancing wellness needs with busy business schedules. While travellers want time for rest and rejuvenation, back-to-back meetings often leave little room for self-care. We're helping address this by monitoring travel frequency and working with companies to ensure their travel policies support wellbeing,” Smith told Travel News.
The future of wellness in corporate travel
De Freitas believes that the future of wellness in corporate travel looks bright, with more personalised, flexible and holistic options set to emerge, benefiting both employees and employers alike.
“We’re seeing a shift towards personalised wellness experiences. Travellers want programmes tailored to their unique needs, whether it’s fitness, nutrition or mental health support,” added Uria.
Smith predicts a greater focus on mental health: “Companies are building support systems to ensure travellers have enough rest, proper resources and a balanced experience. It’s about creating a more caring travel environment.”
