Also recently celebrating a 100th anniversary was Netherlands-based cutlery superstars Sola. Its mother company (Sola B.V.) was founded in 1922, while it’s airline division started over 25 years ago. Since then it has evolved into a multinational supplying to more than 90 airlines worldwide.
Continued focus
“Our main focus was – and still is – to design, develop, manufacture and supply a custom-made products that ticks all the boxes our customers require,” says Hans Engels, Senior Export Manager, Sola Airline Cutlery.
This, in combination with competitive prices and a flexible production enabling to supply in varied timeframes has reinforced Sola as the preferred cutlery supplier for multiple airlines many years in a row.
Sharpening up
“A highlight is definitely the fact that most of our 90 customers have been with us for more than 20 years,” says Hans. “In addition we can say that each time we manage to come up with ideas, new designs and solutions that our customers remain loyal to Sola.”
“We have optimised the production of hollow handle cutlery, enabling us to create and design unique designs at a much lower weight per item. And our single-use-plastic replacement cutlery program is picking up more speed. We can now also supply this from recycled steel.”
A key shift in recent years has seen the company supply more and more alternative inflight catering equipment, including tongs, bread basket, oven racks and inserts.
Looking forward
So, what does Sola think the next 10-20 years has in store for the passenger experience industry?
“We think the level of quality service and products will be much higher for First and Business class. Economy Class long haul will also be upgraded. The future need for a high-class product and the development to make it fit for the specific requirements will increase.”
