Christoph Schmitz, CEO gategroup, has become the new President of the Airline Catering Association, which represents, promotes and defends the common interests of the airline catering industry.
He takes over from Jonathan Stent-Torriani, CEO and owner of Newrest, who held the role for 12 months.
The baton was passed on the final day of the ACA Leadership Symposium in Toulouse, where airline executives, catering service providers and industry experts came together to discuss emerging trends, share best practices and address sector challenges.
“As part of our system, we have a new President every year, and we are proud to announce that Christoph has accepted the presidency for next year,” said Stent-Torriani.
“We count on you (Christoph) to push the association to be even bigger and better this year.”
Members were also told that ACA Managing Director Fabio Gamba is leaving to take a new role in the car sector and that a recruitment process is already under way to find a replacement.
Gamba has held the paid MD position since the association was founded in 2018.
“We really are proud that you’ve spent all this time with us and that you’ve managed to build something which is quite amazing,” said Stent-Torriani.
“We still have a lot to do but you’ve really done the hard work to put us in a position where we can become a real industry reference and be a common voice for caterers and suppliers.”
In the last year, the ACA has grown from 16 full members to 22 full members and from 12 to 23 associate members.
“I have all the reason to believe that this will continue to grow with your commitment and support with Christoph and gategroup at the helm,” Gamba told members at the Leadership Symposium.
“Of course, it’s the biggest catering company in the world and it’s also one of the most committed to ACA. Christoph, I wish all the best to you and your team.
“I would not be surprised if in five years’ time ACA will double in size or even triple.”
Around 120 people attended the 2025 ACA Leadership Symposium – double the number who attended the inaugural symposium held in 2025 in Amsterdam.
Key takeaways and other content from the event will be shared in the March issue of Onboard Hospitality Magazine.
