Tell us about gategroup’s recent investment in North America.
We continue to modernise and expand our North America network, investing in new infrastructure, updated facilities, advanced equipment and cutting-edge technologies.
In April we opened our new flagship unit in San Francisco, setting the global standard for what our future operations can look like. The state-of-the-art facility offers expanded capacity, modular and flexible infrastructure, modernised workflows, advanced food safety protocols and enhanced energy efficiency.
In the autumn we will be opening our new upgraded facility in Montreal, where we are replicating much of what we achieved with San Francisco, transforming an older facility to support improved workflows, upgrading equipment, high sanitation standards and long-term growth with our airline partners.
From a technology standpoint, we continue to scale our self-developed ERP system and proprietary IT tools. Additionally, we are looking into using AI-powered technology for waste/consumption management and production to spec, automation initiatives and the advanced production techniques like hotfill orsous vide processing across our network.
With the highest flight volumes in the world, the North American market is strategically very important to us. We service all of the region’s legacy hub carriers, representing a majority stake of the North American market. Our focus is on selectively expanding where we have capacity and partnering with customers who prioritise innovation, premium service and scalable solutions.
What trends do you see in the North American market?
We are seeing clear trends towards premiumisation and personalisation. Carriers are refining their loyalty programmes, class segmentation and retail strategies, and that reflects back on us in the form of heightened expectations and opportunities.
We’re seeing increased attention to ESG priorities, particularly through waste management, packaging innovation and consumption tracking. Legacy carriers are leaning on caterers to support revenue-generating opportunities while maintaining food safety and operational precision.
Across the North American airline catering market, we’re also seeing rising standards around special meals. This growing demand for personalisation is pushing caterers to deliver with greater consistency and precision. At the same time, food safety protocols are becoming more stringent, with an increase in third-party audits and more detailed service-level agreements driving accountability and quality control.
How is gategroup responding to the shift towards customisation and elevated dining experiences?
Our teams are developing menus that not only align with airline brand identities but also meet evolving passenger expectations around personalisation and wellness. This includes offering more plant-based, allergen-sensitive and culturally relevant options.
We are also leveraging data to better understand passenger preferences, allowing us to support our airline partners in delivering a more curated experience by cabin class. Whether it’s restaurant-style plating in Business and First class, or rotating seasonal selections, we’re committed to elevating the onboard offering through flexibility and innovation.
Can you elaborate on the growing emphasis on sustainability and waste reduction?
Through AI-technologies, we will be able to capture real-time data on consumption, packaging weight and onboard waste, allowing us to rethink portioning, streamline packaging and support ESG commitments. This will not only reduce the environmental impact but will also help airlines optimise load efficiency and cost. We’re also investing in sustainable product development through our equipment brand deSter, collaborating with customers to reduce single-use plastics and design circular solutions. At the same time, we’re expanding our offering of plant-based meals and low-waste culinary innovations.
What are your key priorities for the North American region in the next 12 to 18 months?
Our priorities include the continuation of operational enhancement and expansion, digital transformation, sustainability and culinary innovation, all underpinned by a renewed focus on accountability and audit readiness across the group.
We are continuing to invest in infrastructure and technology across the region, modernising assets and implementing smarter equipment that enhances consistency and efficiency. Our in-house ERP platform, AI tools and automation initiatives are all enabling smarter operations and waste reduction.
Culinary excellence remains a strategic priority. We’re pushing forward with high-end techniques like sous vide and restaurant-style plating, while ensuring these innovations scale effectively at the unit level.
Jens Kuhlen joined gategroup in 2015 and was appointed President North America in 2022, focusing on organisational alignment, enhancing communication and teamwork, and integrating the two countries into one cohesive region.
