RX, the organiser of World Travel Catering and Onboard Services Expo (WTCE), has released a preview of what visitors can expect from the 2025 Taste of Travel Theatre programme, taking place on 8-10 April.
The line-up will focus on several key themes that are shaping the onboard hospitality sector, including potential applications of artificial intelligence (AI), creativity in the food and beverage offer, as well as general themes of sustainability, accessibility, and retail innovation.
Each session, taking place at a dedicated area of the WTCE show floor in Hamburg Messe, will feature industry experts who will explore the latest trends and challenges in onboard services. Visitors can expect to hear about insights and practical strategies to help airlines and suppliers collaborate to drive innovation without increasing costs.
The human touch versus technology
Day one of the show will see technology and AI leaders debate how to balance efficiency and the human touch. The discussions will include questions such as whether AI is enabling the industry to improve the customer experience or if it is it all getting too impersonal; whether it all comes down to cost; and whether passengers still appreciate the personal, human service provided by airline crew members.
The panel will be made up of Angie Mullen, head of inflight retail operations at easyJet; Vimal Kumar Rai, commercial excellence partner at Blue Skies; Antony Carson, crew engagement manager at Retail inMotion; and Paul Bilham, VP of sales at Omnevo.
Innovation vs best price – can airlines and suppliers find the balance?
Day two of the event will see experts discuss how airlines and suppliers can work together to create outstanding products that deliver both innovation and value. The session will explore strategies for balancing creativity with procurement demands, to help ensure the best outcomes for all.
The panel will comprise Louise Leaupepe, senior manager of inflight experience at Riyadh Air; Paul Hunter, an independent industry consultant; Mir Amer Hussain, head of onboard experience at Air India; and Ali Atkinson, group director at GlobalC.
Commenting on the Taste of Travel Theatre, Shona Thomson, event manager of WTCE, said: “The WTCE Taste of Travel Theatre is always a highlight of the show, and the exciting line-up of sessions will no doubt inspire and inform visitors looking for the latest in technological advancements and AI innovations onboard. WTCE is the perfect place to gain fresh ideas, enhance passenger satisfaction, and drive operational success, so the Theatre is a must-visit for anyone looking to stay ahead in onboard services.”
