What have been your priorities since you took over as head of American Express GBT in EMEA?
Elyes Mrad - Our strategy is based on four main pillars, and is designed to last over the long term. technologythe datagrowth in international networkand finally theacquisition or the development of partnerships with other market players to increase not only our presence but also our quality of service. Following the creation of the joint venture with Certares, we now have approximately 900 million which will enable us to ensure our growth in the four areas mentioned above. Part of this money will be used to carry out a real technological leap forward compared with our competitorsThis will be achieved through an integrated online, mobile and offline platform, with GDS and non-GDS content. But we're not a technology company: our business is service. Technology is a means, not an end.
What exactly is the role of a business travel agency in 2015, one hundred years after the creation of American Express?
Elyes Mrad - Paradoxically, this 100th anniversary gives me the impression of a rebirth. We are a hundred-year-old start-up with 12,000 employees. This is a decisive step towards reinventing the industry, based on solid experience. American Express is one of the finest names in the business travel industry, a guarantee of trust and service.
What is France's role in this strategy?
Elyes Mrad - This is the 2nd most important market in the world for American Express Business Travel, after the United States. The indicators are good. Today, every start-up that launches is already thinking about its international development. All this creates positive momentum in business travel. I think the market will continue to grow in 2016.
