The organisers of in-flight catering, onboard services and passenger comfort event WTCE, taking place in Hamburg from 28-30 May, say the event will have a key regional focus on Asia this year.
Asian aviation is expected to make a huge resurgence in 2024 and the organisers have released a report in partnership with Asia-based Airline hospitality consultant Jeremy Clark that looks at Asia as a regional and global travel powerhouse.
The report examines how Asia is now picking up pace and looks set to continue this growth. WTTC says that, according to SSCR rates (Scheduled Seat Capacity Recovery) Lion Air and Air Asia have seen recovery at 99% and 70% respectively and Singapore Airlines, 81%, Malaysian Airlines, 85% and Philippine Airlines, 87%.
The business travel market is expected to make a big resurgence with the return of face-to-face meetings which is likely to propel further growth in the increasingly popular business class sector.
Onboard hospitality
Thai Airways prides itself on its service, with CEO Chai Eamsiri stating: “The airline is committed to regaining and re-building its heritage and taking its rightful place as one of the region’s premier full service carriers in all classes.”
There is a strong focus on food service and quality and in Asia, even airlines operating short regional flights serve a snack in economy at the very least and healthy choices.
WTCE says the event will have a large number of suppliers exhibiting who are set up to work with and supply products to Asia, including leading airline caterer LSG Group, Linstol, a global leader in sustainable in-flight passenger comforts, FORMIA, a global supplier of tailor-made, premium, in-flight amenities and dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers and onboard catering companies.
Full-service caterer specialising in authentic Asian cuisine, SATS Catering Pte.Ltd, will also be at the event, as will leading Japanese premium porcelain supplier Noritake Co.Ltd, among many others.
The educational programme at WTCE features current and future trends at its the popular Taste of Travel Theatre which runs a schedule of seminars, cooking demos and tasting opportunities. What’s New Onboard feature showcases a variety of newly launched products to the onboard market, and the ‘Wellbeing Walk-through’ highlights a range of exhibitors showcasing products that support wellbeing from healthy food and beverages to soft goods and amenity products.
In addition, the Steps to Sustainability’ feature celebrates the accomplishments and innovations of companies that are leading the way in environmentally conscious materials, production, manufacturing and operations.
Networking opportunities include access to the VIP Buyer Lounge as well as a digital gift bag with exclusive deals, give-aways and promo items from a range off unique exhibitors.
Polly Magraw, WTCE Event Director says: “Naturally, Asia has always been an important focus for WTCE but with the travel industry expected to continue to bounce back even further in 2024, we are keen to show air operators from the region how the event could really help them boost their business this year. Not only do we have a large selection of global suppliers exhibiting, but we also have a strong number of companies from across Asia in attendance, providing opportunities for buyers to see a range of organisations offering innovative and unique products that could help them differentiate themselves from their competitors.
“In addition, the educational opportunities at WTCE are second to none, providing Asian airlines with the chance to learn about trends and developments in the rest of the world that may impact and influence their own businesses.”
