PRESS RELEASE
FCM launches proprietary tech platform in China
JUNE 22, 2021
FCM, one of the world’s largest travel management companies today announced the launch of its new proprietary technology platform in China. The launch reinforces FCM’s strategic commitment to the Chinese market and to be the best localized global TMC in China. FCM’s globally consistent platform has been enhanced with unique localized features and content developed specifically for the Chinese market and their traveler needs. FCM expects its first pilot customers to start using the platform in July.
With an accelerated investment in technology during the pandemic, along with extensive customer and traveler feedback, FCM developed a platform which provides a superior user experience and flexibility. The technology can also be adapted to specific customer and country requirements.
Post-pandemic, we have seen an increase in requirements from MNCs and Chinese national companies to achieve flexibility in their travel programmes. Through joint efforts with these local players, we will continue to build our vision in making FCM a one-stop shop for customers, with the aim of equipping them with tools they need to manage a travel programme efficiently through one simple, powerful and effective experience. At the same time, we will continue to engage actively with our long-term travel partners like TravelSky, Concur, Cloud Helios and Airplus who are important to our Chinese customers.
Calvin Xie, General Manager of FCM Travel China
The platform provides seamless crossover between devices, air and rail comparison options, and self-service functions that include rebooking or changes in itinerary. Travel managers will have access to a slew of solutions including greater travel policy control, comprehensive approval processes and heightened risk and safety controls. In addition, travelers will also be ensured of always available assistance, via live chat with an agent or via FCM’s mobile chatbot Sam which has evolved into a digital assistant across the entire platform.
“China remains a critical market for FCM Travel globally and we have chosen to launch FCM Platform in China as we believe this new platform will benefit MNCs, national companies and business travelers significantly in this market. At the moment, there is a relatively low percentage of companies in China who uses a TMC to manage their travel program. This is a clear signal that managed travel still has far-reaching opportunities in China. FCM’s new platform will be invaluable in enabling current as well as new customers to be highly agile in the ever-evolving travel landscape post-covid, as well as support them through their company expansion plans," adds Calvin.
With a strong vaccine roll-out program led by US and UK, and Singapore and China setting the pace in Asia, there is increasing optimism and growing momentum for a return to travel. Demand for corporate travel will accelerate as vaccination rates increase and adoption of digital health passports gain speed. Companies will be focusing on risk and safety, speed and convenience as the cornerstones for the return to travel.
To keep up and stay competitive, managed travel must be radically simplified yet flexible enough to fulfil the evolving needs of organizations and their travelers. As a leading travel management company, we draw extensive experience from FCM’s global set-up with a commitment to develop corporate travel technology solutions that empower companies with the tools they need to thrive in a digital era. FCM Platform is a culmination of the expertise and experience in travel technology, with the customers’ needs at the heart of the system.
- Bertrand Saillet, Managing Director of FCM Travel Asia