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Gate Gourmet UK & Ireland, an airline services provider, has successfully undertaken the highly complex task of commencing operations for three new customers in just two days. This new business will see Gate Gourmet servicing 63 more flights and providing approximately 15,000 extra meals every week.
On 29 and 30 March, services for Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines and Air France were launched as a new service for Gate Gourmet's operations at Heathrow Airport.
Conducting the start-ups in such close succession is virtually unprecedented in airline service provision. Between 25,000 and 42,000 components are required for each flight, so meticulous planning was required by almost 1,000 Gate Gourmet team members that worked in partnership with each airline to cater each new flight.
Gate Gourmet UK & Ireland's strong start to 2008 follows two years of record growth, transforming the company into an increasingly efficient and innovative operation. In addition to signing multi-year contracts with the three carriers, Gate Gourmet has recently added Qatar Airways to its roster. This contract brings 28 long-haul flights per week to Heathrow, as well as seven long-haul flights per week to Gatwick.
Gate Gourmet has also extended its contract with Cathay Pacific, covering 31 flights per week from Heathrow. The new contracts will equate to an annual increase of nearly two million onboard meals, taking the total number to over 42 million at Heathrow.
Eric Born, Group SVP & President Europe West/South, said: "Delivering on these start-ups highlights the dedication and hard work of the Gate Gourmet team. The contract wins are also a testament to our competitive advantage based on efficiency, superior quality and innovation. Gate Gourmet is committed to delivering the highest standards of service to our customers, and we look forward to working with these airlines in the years ahead."
Raymond Mulder, Regional Manager Catering Operations-Europe, Northwest Airlines, said: "Gate Gourmet is a highly innovative company with a full range of services that match our requirements. Northwest Airlines is delighted to be partnering with Gate Gourmet as we strive to offer our passengers the very best travelling experience."