Charlotte Lamp Davies Discusses AI, Fintech, and Travel Innovation at Phocuswright Europe 2025

Charlotte Lamp Davies is the founder of A Bright Approach, a consultancy that focuses on travel technology and innovation. With extensive experience in Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Asia, Charlotte has worked with numerous companies to navigate the complexities of digital transformation in the travel industry. She is a leading advocate for gender parity and diversity in travel tech, actively participating in initiatives like the Phocuswright Women’s Leadership Initiative. At Phocuswright Europe 2025, she moderated a panel on connected mobility and discussed the role of AI and hyper-personalization in shaping the future of travel. Charlotte’s expertise spans AI, fintech, and travel trends, making her a prominent thought leader in the industry.

Hi, I’m Charlotte Lamp Davies, and I’m with the management consultancy A Bright Approach. You’ve been consulting for this Phocuswright event here in Barcelona. Can you tell us your impressions of the event?

It’s been absolutely wonderful. This is the third time the show is back here in Barcelona, and it’s at a new venue. It’s fantastic to see the industry come together at Phocuswright year after year, and it’s growing in numbers, which is great.

What about the industry? You’ve been in contact with many startups and institutions related to the travel industry. How do you see the evolution of this market?

Well, of course, I have to say AI. Everyone is talking about AI, and there are a number of companies here developing tools using AI. Beyond that, the connected trip is another conversation we’re having. Several companies, like Naza, are developing technology to perfect the connected trip. You’ll also find many financial companies here—fintechs, payment solutions, insurance, and hospitality brands. Of course, all the major OTAs are here or speaking on stage as well.

AI and technological innovations in finance allow for more sophisticated and useful ways of payment. Can you highlight some of them?

We know mobile is first. Whether we like it or not, we’re on our phones all the time. The ability to make payments quickly and efficiently via mobile is ever-evolving. There’s an interesting company here called Hands In, which has developed technology that allows users to split bills. That’s another aspect of fintech that’s still growing. It’s exciting to see new brands coming in and disrupting the industry.

You’re leading a PR company yourself. Can you tell us more about your company and your strategy?

I don’t necessarily go to market selling myself as a PR company, but I have a strong focus on brand identity. I work as a strategic advisor to travel tech companies in my portfolio. My work involves everything from go-to-market strategies to developing strategies for specific markets, or even creating entire sales teams for individual clients. Along the way, I ensure that my clients are taken seriously and well-noted in the industry.

About Phocuswright 2025

Phocuswright Europe 2025, held from June 10 to 12 at the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya in Barcelona, brought together over 600 senior executives, innovators, and thought leaders from the global travel and technology industries. This prominent event served as a key platform for discussing the latest advancements and emerging trends in travel, technology, and innovation. With the theme “The New Age(nts),” the conference focused on how new technological solutions, particularly generative AI, digital identity, and evolving distribution models, are reshaping every aspect of the traveler experience.

Generative AI was a central topic, as it is revolutionizing the way travel brands interact with customers, from personalized travel recommendations to automating customer service through intelligent chatbots. Attendees explored how AI can enhance efficiency and personalization at scale, allowing companies to offer more customized experiences to travelers. Another key focus was digital identity, with discussions on how digital identification systems can streamline the check-in process, improve security, and facilitate smoother cross-border travel, especially as more countries move toward biometric systems.

The conference also delved into the changing landscape of distribution models, examining how traditional travel services are being disrupted by new players and technologies. This transformation is allowing consumers to have more control over their travel plans and explore more seamless, multimodal travel options. From AI-driven pricing to more transparent distribution channels, the conference explored how technology is enabling more flexibility and empowerment for both travelers and providers.

Overall, Phocuswright Europe 2025 offered valuable insights into the future of travel, with industry leaders sharing their visions on how technology is driving innovation and shaping the next generation of travel.