Why is WTCE so important in the onboard hospitality space?
From networking opportunities to uncovering key trends and insights, WTCE provides visitors with access to the latest advances in the onboard sector. If it’s within your field of expertise, it’s definitely a must-attend event because you can meet with new suppliers and discover fresh products.
WTCE is a good opportunity to see the latest developments and trends in the market and reconnect with people throughout the industry. I’ve been going to the event for so many years now – it’s the one time of the year where I see all of my old colleagues and industry peers. WTCE is also a good opportunity to listen to different people’s views on a variety of topics.
The Taste of Travel theatre also offers insightful seminars presented by prominent industry speakers.
How does Vueling approach the schedule?
I try and give myself some time to explore. The best thing to do is to review all the different exhibitors ahead of time and arrange as many meetings as possible, so that they can dedicate time to you.
Although I didn’t have the time to take part in many meetings last year, my team came back with a host of exciting ideas and fresh products.
My team visits both WTCE and its co-located show AIX, which focuses on innovation in aircraft interiors. AIX showcases all aspects of the cabin, from lighting, seating, galley equipment and LEDs to cabin management systems, IFEC hardware and communications for a 360-degree view of the sector.
What do you see as the key trends?
Though I can’t speak for the whole industry, it seems like everyone is currently working on digitalisation. It’s all about how we can personalise the passenger journey using digital tools and build AI into the into the passenger experience. I would say it’s the key focus moving forward.
I don’t see WTCE specifically as a catering show. We need new technologies to help us reduce waste, manage it more effectively and deliver retail more efficiently. For this, digital tools are vital moving forward. It’s all about the measures we need to put in place to deliver all our sustainability goals and achieve an accessible passenger experience. It’s becoming exponentially important every day, and it’s something that we need to be more aware of.
Do you have any advice for airlines visiting for the first time?
My advice on attending is to have a very well-planned diary. Make sure you arrange all of your meetings in advance. I’ve always found that I get a much better outcome if I have an agreed meeting set up. Do a bit of research and personalise the approach to the airline you’re talking to.
Plan as much as you can in advance and look at all the keynotes and speeches. I try and plan everything, including my meetings around the sessions that I’d like to attend.
WTCE will take place at Hamburg Messe from 8-10 April 2025.
To register, head to worldtravelcateringexpo.com
