A number of exhibitors will be taking part in the 2026 Steps to Sustainability trail at the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE). The trail spotlights practical solutions to reduce environmental impact across onboard catering and inflight services.
Developed with support from WTCE Sustainability Ambassador and Aviation Sustainability Forum Co-founder Matt Crane, the initiative helps visitors identify suppliers embedding sustainability into products, materials and operations.
The feature will guide visitors to exhibitors demonstrating progress in areas including circular materials, waste reduction, sustainable sourcing, lightweight design, electrification and carbon measurement.
Participating companies span the global inflight supply chain, including Banana Cph, Boncafe International, Bottega, Clip Limited, Dibella, Global-C, Linstol, Pain de Minuit, RMT Global Partners, Snackbox to Go, The Barista Cup, Castello Monte Vibiano, EURO-GOODNIGHT S.L., Korita Aviation, Mallaghan, Pimentae, Procurall Solutions and Global Inflight Products.
From waste to resource
Visitors will see a range of innovations, including products made from rescued food ingredients, ocean-recovered plastics and recycled textiles. Other highlights include compostable service ware made from agricultural by-products, modular inflight equipment designed for repair, and lightweight galley equipment that helps reduce fuel burn.
Circular economy principles run throughout the feature. Exhibitors are repurposing surplus materials – from bread turned into beer and overripe fruit used in plant-based desserts, to recycled PET bottles transformed into onboard textiles. Others are tackling waste through modular design, recyclable materials and alternatives to single-use plastics.
Beyond materials
Alongside product innovation, many exhibitors are showcasing broader sustainability efforts across their operations. These include certified sourcing, emissions reporting and collaborative programmes that support airlines in measuring and reducing onboard environmental impact.
Matt Crane said: “Steps to Sustainability recognises companies embedding sustainability into products, supply chains and business models. This year’s exhibitors show how innovation can deliver environmental benefits while creating value for airlines and passengers.”
Shona Thomson, Event Manager for WTCE, added: “The Steps to Sustainability trail helps visitors quickly identify suppliers making real progress. The 2026 line-up highlights the level of innovation and commitment across the sector.”
Visitors to WTCE 2026 can follow the Steps to Sustainability trail across the show floor to explore the featured companies and their solutions.
WTCE takes place at Hamburg Messe from 14–16 April 2026, bringing together passenger experience professionals to network and discover new products and services.
