Gen Z set to make up 34% of global workforce by 2034, new report says

Trend report sets out how Gen Z attitudes to travel, flexibility and wellbeing relate to business travel programmes

Generation Z is set to account for 34 per cent of the global workforce by 2034, according, with travel playing a notable role in how younger employees view work.

A new report by Booking.com for Business found that more than half of Gen Z respondents find roles that allow them to experience other cultures attractive, while 70 per cent say they look forward to travelling for work.

In relation to business trips, the report says this generation seeks to combine “productivity with purpose and personal growth”.

Work–life balance and flexibility are also highlighted, with many Gen Z workers likely to extend business trips for leisure time — described as ‘bleisure’.

Travel policies that support better work/life balance are described as important.

The report characterises Gen Z as “digital natives” who are comfortable using AI-powered travel services and expect seamless bookings, personalised recommendations and easily accessible information.

Wellbeing during business travel is another theme. While 52 per cent of travellers surveyed say work trips boost their mental health and 46 per cent their physical health, disrupted sleep (60 per cent) and changes in eating habits (48 per cent) are reported to take a toll.

The report, called 7 Business Travel Trends to Act on Now, also states that companies need a way to measure the value of in-person business trips where virtual alternatives exist, setting out how organisations can define specific, measurable outcomes for each journey.

Automation is covered under a trend described as “AI on autopilot”, where systems learn from booking, approval and reimbursement patterns to make business travel more efficient.

Forthcoming changes to border controls are also noted. The European Union’s Entry/Exit system will be fully operational by April 2026, with physical passport stamps replaced by biometric checks.

Joshua Wood, Director of Booking.com for Business, said: “We believe successful business travel combines consumer-level simplicity, ease and rewards with financial discipline: Clear policies, flexible options and technology that removes friction.

“When you design trips that respect employee time, company budget and traveller wellbeing, you can transform business from a cost centre into a growth channel for generating revenue and building stronger teams. That’s the opportunity this trend report points to, and it’s within reach for every SME.”

READ MORE: ‘Bleisure boom turning Gen Z work travel into ‘life upgrade’. New research from Hotels.com shows Gen Z and Millennial business travellers are transforming work trips into personal experiences — from self-funded hotel upgrades and fine dining to social-media documentation and extended “bleisure” stays.

Do you have news to share or expertise to contribute? The European welcomes insights from business leaders and sector specialists. Get in touch with our editorial team to find out more.

_{Main image: Monstera Production/Pexels}