When the folks at FCM Travel say they’re “thinking big,” they’re not just tossing around corporate confetti. They’re strapping in, climbing to cruising altitude, and navigating the stormy airspace of travel technology with a cheeky wink and a sharp eye on the horizon.
The latest instalment of their Th!nk Series — a kind of TED Talk meets travel strategy summit with less pomposity and more punch — has landed in Sydney, is taxiing into Melbourne, and is inbound for Brisbane in early June. This year’s themes? New Distribution Capability (NDC), artificial intelligence, and the trends that are reshaping how Aussie corporates pack a bag and book a flight.
If you’re not across NDC yet, fear not — you’re in safe hands. According to Renos Rologas, General Manager of FCM Travel for Australia and New Zealand, this year’s Th!nk sessions are anything but dry lectures. They’re live, in-person, and “diving into some very topical, timely and important conversations.” And judging by the turnout in Sydney — booked out faster than a Taylor Swift concert at the SCG — he’s not wrong.
“NDC is all about enhancing value and choice for travel buyers,” says Rologas, with the gravitas of a man who’s seen too many legacy systems limping along like arthritic emus. “There’s an important conversation to be had around what that looks like here in Australia.”
NDC is the aviation industry’s attempt to become smarter about how airfares, add-ons, and booking experiences are presented to buyers, particularly in the corporate sector. Less clunky systems, more tailored experiences. Airlines love it. Agents are adapting. Travellers? Still getting used to the idea that airline booking might one day feel more like Uber than 1990s spreadsheet bingo.
“Players are ready to deploy NDC, and we’re ready to provide an update on how the industry is shaping up to deliver the best value,” Rologas assures. And he’s not just talking a good game — FCM is walking the tarmac, too.
But it’s not all codes and channels. AI, the ever-buzzing tech darling, is also firmly on the boarding pass.
“AI has been the buzz for years, but the impact it’s having now on travel programs and user experience is real,” Rologas notes. “Our guest speakers will share how it’s reshaping the journey — from bookings to traveller wellbeing.”
Think predictive analytics, smarter itineraries, and support services that (unlike your in-laws) know where you are when you’ve landed. It’s not robots replacing humans — it’s about freeing up real people to provide more brilliant service. Well, that’s the theory.
Sundowners and strategy: Th!nk delegates mix insights with harbour views at golden hour.
And let’s not forget the good old-fashioned trends because no travel event would be complete without a peek into the economic tea leaves. FCM Consulting is bringing the numbers — a sharp look at global and local business travel patterns, shifting fare costs, and what that all means for corporate purse strings.
“The Th!nk Series brings together industry leaders to explore current travel trends, exchange ideas, and keep ahead of the curve,” Rologas explains. And yes, there’s plenty of networking, nodding, and post-session espresso-fuelled plotting too.
He adds, “These events are about engaging face-to-face, grappling with the big topics, and walking away with practical strategies you can actually use. This isn’t a talkfest — it’s a take-action fest.”
And in this age of digital overload and algorithm fatigue, that promise of human connection and real insight couldn’t be more timely.
🗓 Event Details
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Sydney: Thursday, 29 May 2025, 2 pm – Hyatt Regency Sydney (Sorry folks, this one’s already full!)
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Melbourne: Tuesday, 3 June 2025, 2 pm – Grand Hyatt Melbourne
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Brisbane: Thursday, 5 June 2025, 2 pm – Flight Centre Travel Group Global HQ Rooftop
The Melbourne and Brisbane legs still have limited seats available — but not for long. So, if you fancy being part of a travel evolution — rather than just watching from the departure lounge — get your RSVP in sharpish.
Register here to claim your spot and stay ahead in the great game of travel strategy: Registration Link.
