Travel in Germany

Favourable economic climate supports travel in Germany

Virtually all travel-related indicators in Germany continued to show positive development at the end of the review period. All three parameters regarding flow - inbound, domestic and outbound trips - saw further, in some cases even quite substantial, growth rates.

Ongoing growth of online and especially mobile share in travel

The shift away from offline towards online products and services in travel is expected to continue in Germany like virtually everywhere else, and within online the share of mobile (revenues created through smartphones and tablet computers) is predicted to also increase. Germany, however, is at a comparatively low level when seen in the context of other countries, which can be illustrated by the still quite strong effect of German consumers researching their trip online but then purchasing it offline in an actual travel agency.

Insolvency of Air Berlin has a considerable impact on air travel in Germany

The main story at the end of the review period in terms of the competitive environment in travel in Germany was the bankruptcy of Air Berlin in late 2017, which had a considerable influence on air travel. In particular, the German capital Berlin, where Air Berlin’s hub was located, suffered from a significant loss of international connections, resulting in international visitor numbers being much lower than they could be.

Ongoing digitalisation has a considerable influence on travel

It is widely agreed that apart from the further growth of the online channel, and especially mobile bookings, ongoing digitalisation will have a considerable impact on the travel industry in Germany as both a destination as well as source country. Frequently cited examples include driverless cars, unmanned aerial vehicles for transport over fairly short distances, communication devices such as simultaneous translators, individualised services based on face recognition (for example keyless entry to airport lounges or hotel rooms) as well as virtual reality apps.

Positive outlook for travel products and services in Germany over the forecast period

The performance of travel in Germany over the forecast period is expected to be very positive and therefore largely in line with the growth experienced over 2013-2018. This will be the result of growing inbound, domestic and outbound flows and subsequent increased demand for travel products and services in virtually all areas, including transport, lodging, attractions, travel-related shopping and bookings.

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