Dave

First slice: PizzaExpress launches breakfast menu at Gatwick Airport

/in /by

Passengers traversing through London Gatwick Airport will soon have a delightful new dining option as PizzaExpress prepares to open its doors at the South Terminal on 20 May.

This eagerly anticipated addition marks a significant milestone for PizzaExpress, being the brand’s inaugural foray into airport dining within the UK.

In an exciting twist, PizzaExpress at Gatwick will offer a unique breakfast menu, a first for the brand in the UK. Early morning travellers can indulge in a delectable array of dishes, including the Italian Bacon & Egg pizza adorned with crispy pancetta, and the Smashed Avocado & Poached Eggs served on freshly baked dough. The Full Works promises a classic English breakfast with a PizzaExpress twist, complemented by innovative offerings like Pancetta & Maple Syrup Pancakes and Breakfast Dough Balls & Jam, available daily from 3:30am to 11:00am.

From 11:00 am, PizzaExpress enthusiasts can transition seamlessly to the brand’s renowned classics, including the beloved American Hot and Padana pizzas, sumptuous calzones, and tantalising salads such as the ever-popular Niçoise. With an extensive menu boasting pastas and desserts, there’s something to satiate every palate throughout the day.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer at London Gatwick, expressed delight at the impending arrival of PizzaExpress, saying,

We are delighted to welcome PizzaExpress to London Gatwick. It will be a fantastic addition to our South Terminal departure lounge, as we strive to offer our passengers an exciting, diverse range of options before they fly. PizzaExpress is the latest opening at London Gatwick, and adds to the growing choice of iconic food and drink brands available to our passengers. PizzaExpress’ commitment to quality and passion for creating memorable dining experiences aligns with our own dedication to ensuring a positive experience for all passengers travelling through the airport.

Chris Holmes, PizzaExpress Chief Development Officer, echoed the sentiment:

We’re incredibly excited to be opening PizzaExpress at London Gatwick, which is a gateway to many destinations across the world, including some of our own international markets. Our customers want to enjoy their favourite brand everywhere and at any time, so opening sites across travel hubs – of which Gatwick is set to be the first airport location – provides even more opportunities for our customers to connect with us.

Embarking on a journey with our franchise partner, Airport Retail Enterprises, we wanted to set the stage for something different across our Gatwick Airport site. As an industry leading innovator, we created a menu that offers up something fresh and different, appealing to diners around the clock.

We all know the holiday starts from the moment you arrive at the airport, and from early morning breakfasts to late night dinners, there’s nowhere better to celebrate that holiday feeling than at PizzaExpress London Gatwick.

PizzaExpress joins a prestigious lineup of food and beverage establishments at London Gatwick, including recent additions like The Breakfast Club, Brewdog, Krispy Kreme, Black Sheep Coffee, and Greggs. This culinary expansion underscores Gatwick’s commitment to enhancing the passenger journey with an array of iconic brands.

For travellers seeking a slice of culinary delight before takeoff, PizzaExpress at London Gatwick promises an unparalleled dining experience from breakfast through to dinner.

For further information about flight options from London Gatwick – and the best ways to get there – please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Space cookies make history: DoubleTree’s iconic treat touches down at the Smithsonian

/in /by

DoubleTree by Hilton’s famous chocolate chip cookie, the first food baked in space, has landed at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum after its celestial journey aboard the International Space Station.

DoubleTree by Hilton etched its name in history books as its signature warm chocolate chip cookie became the first-ever food baked in space. This pioneering experiment, aimed at enhancing the comfort and hospitality of long-duration space travel, saw the famous cookie take a celestial journey aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Now, this iconic treat has landed at the prestigious National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

Partnering with Zero G Kitchen and Nanoracks (now part of Voyager Space), DoubleTree by Hilton embarked on this groundbreaking journey in 2019, marking Hilton as the first hospitality company to contribute to research aboard the ISS.

Cosmic cookies: the famous DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie became the first food item baked in space

The collaboration resulted in the development of a specially designed oven suitable for space travel, paving the way for culinary innovations beyond Earth’s bounds. After days of experimentation, the aroma of freshly baked DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies permeated the Space Station, making history in the process.

Flight testing: astronauts aboard the ISS were given an opportunity to enjoy special pre-baked DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies

In 2020, the space-traveling cookie returned from orbit for rigorous testing by food scientists. Its journey continued from the Johnson Space Center to Virginia before finding a permanent home in an air-tight exhibition box at the National Air and Space Museum.

Dr. Jennifer K. Levasseur, museum curator at the Department of Space History, expressed excitement about showcasing DoubleTree by Hilton’s chocolate chip cookie as the first-ever food baked in space by astronauts. She said,

We are thrilled to display DoubleTree by Hilton’s chocolate chip cookie as the first-ever food baked in space by astronauts. Innovations like baking could make even longer duration missions in space much more enjoyable, and sustainable, so DoubleTree’s historic space cookie is a natural choice to represent this development in the Udvar-Hazy Center’s display of space food.

Shawn McAteer, brand leader of DoubleTree by Hilton, emphasised the brand’s longstanding interest in space travel, saying,

Hospitality and innovation are two strands of Hilton’s DNA, and we are beyond honored to be the first hospitality company involved in historic research aboard the International Space Station and to now have the DoubleTree cookie on display in the Smithsonian. When people hear the DoubleTree cookie was the first item successfully baked in outer space, we hope they not only celebrate the experiment, but get an understanding that DoubleTree is deeply committed to providing warm and caring service, all starting with our signature welcome and iconic chocolate chip cookie.

https://youtu.be/MgPUDpdXpdo

The space-traveling cookie, now on display at the Udvar-Hazy Center, symbolizes DoubleTree’s commitment to warm and caring service. Visitors can marvel at this culinary marvel while anticipating its inclusion in the museum’s new exhibit, “At Home in Space,” scheduled to open in Washington, D.C., in 2026.

For those craving a taste of history, DoubleTree by Hilton offers its original warm chocolate chip cookie at all U.S. locations, including DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sterling – Dulles Airport, conveniently located less than 15 minutes from the museum.

To learn more about DoubleTree by Hiltonor to satisfy your curiosity about business travel, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.

Dave

Reviving the River Findhorn: LNER’s Investment in Nature Conservation

/in /by

LNER’s partnership with the Findhorn, Nairn, and Lossie Rivers Trust is revitalising the River Findhorn’s ecosystem, combating declining salmon numbers and fostering community engagement for a sustainable future.

Communities and ecosystems nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, particularly those along the River Findhorn, are celebrating a significant boost in funding from LNER’s Customer and Community Investment Fund. This funding injection is playing a pivotal role in rejuvenating natural habitats and safeguarding the iconic salmon population.

The stewardship of the Findhorn, Nairn, and Lossie Rivers Trust encompasses the care of all three rivers. In recent years, experts monitoring the Findhorn have observed a decline in salmon numbers, with climate change-induced rising water temperatures emerging as a potential culprit.

To counteract this trend, the Trust has embarked on its flagship project, the ‘Findhorn Watershed Initiative’. At the heart of this initiative is the strategic planting of native woodland along the riverbanks, aimed at providing crucial shade during the summer months to mitigate rising temperatures.

Watershed initiative: ecosystems and communities in and around the River Findhorn in the Scottish Highlands have welcomed funding from LNER’s Customer and Community Investment Fund

Thanks to the backing from LNER, the initiative has been able to implement an array of monitoring systems to collect essential ecological data. This includes conducting fish and invertebrate surveys and installing river temperature loggers, equipping researchers with the necessary insights to track progress and assess improvements over time.

However, the initiative extends beyond scientific intervention. It is deeply rooted in community engagement, recognising that fostering a connection between people and nature is essential for long-term conservation efforts. Through a comprehensive community outreach programme, volunteers from the local area have been empowered to contribute to the protection of the river for future generations.

The community engagement programme under the Findhorn Watershed Initiative has brought together individuals of all ages, fostering an appreciation for the river’s cultural heritage, wildlife and landscapes. Delving into the region’s rich history, participants have explored lost nature-related Gaelic place names, songs and stories, providing invaluable insights into the area’s ecological evolution and offering a roadmap for restoration efforts.

LNER: saving salmon in Scotland’s Rivers

Bob Laughton, Director at the Findhorn, Nairn, and Lossie Rivers Trust, expressed gratitude for LNER’s support, highlighting the invaluable role it has played in gathering crucial baseline data to inform future conservation endeavors. He said,

LNER’s support over the past 12 months has been invaluable. During that time we’ve developed an important body of ecological and cultural baseline data and information which will help us target our work with the Findhorn Watershed Initiative to maximise positive impact for the landscapes, wildlife and communities of the upper River Findhorn catchment area into the future.

Rachael Wilson, Community Investment Manager at LNER, reiterated the company’s commitment to fostering a greener future, stating,

As a long-distance rail operator, we continue to play our part in creating a greener future and we are delighted to be supporting the Findhorn, Nairn, and Lossie Rivers Trust in their work to protect the Findhorn for generations to come. The project not only inspires people in the local community to come together but also to connect with nature and the area’s heritage, all in addition to the benefits for the environment and wildlife.

As the River Findhorn continues its journey towards restoration and preservation, the collaborative efforts between the Findhorn, Nairn, and Lossie Rivers Trust and LNER stand as a testament to the power of partnerships in safeguarding our precious natural resources.

For further information on LNER services, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.


Dave

Eurostar’s green journey: targeting 30 million passengers with sustainable travel by 2030

/in /by

Eurostar, the high-speed rail network connecting major European cities including London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, has set an ambitious target to enable 30 million passengers to travel sustainably while significantly reducing carbon emissions by 2030.

In its inaugural sustainability report, Eurostar outlines a comprehensive strategy focusing on three key areas aimed at enhancing its environmental credentials and promoting sustainable travel practices.

Firstly, Eurostar is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact by transitioning to renewable energy sources for its traction needs and implementing energy-saving measures.

Noteworthy is its collaboration with Infrabel, as highlighted in the February 2024 Memorandum of Understanding, aimed at exploring innovative solar projects to power trains, showcasing its commitment to green energy solutions.

Secondly, the company is striving to integrate circularity throughout its value chain, emphasizing waste minimization and efficient resource utilization.

This commitment is exemplified by its thoughtful approach to on-board catering, where sustainable sourcing and environmentally friendly options are prioritized, earning Eurostar a prestigious three-star rating from the Food Made Good Awards.

Thirdly, Eurostar aims to attract more passengers to its low-carbon service by enhancing connectivity through initiatives such as “open hubs,” facilitating seamless connections to domestic networks and long-haul flights.

The airline-rail partnership with KLM exemplifies this approach, offering passengers convenient and eco-friendly travel options.

Central to Eurostar’s sustainability vision is the ambition to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2030.

By collaborating with partners and advocating for regulatory support, Eurostar aims to spearhead change within the transportation sector. Eurostar’s CEO, Gwendoline Cazenave, emphasises the company’s commitment to leveraging its brand and influence to accelerate industry-wide transformation towards sustainability. She said,

This is a deliberately ambitious target, Eurostar wants to use its brand and commitment to accelerate change across the sector. To achieve our goal, we work closely together with our partners in each of our markets, we encourage regulatory support for the rapid deployment of new renewable energy projects.

Eurostar’s membership in the RE100 alliance underscores its dedication to renewable energy adoption, making it the first rail company to join this global initiative.

Ollie Wilson, Head of RE100 at Climate Group, commends Eurostar’s leadership and encourages other businesses in the rail sector to follow suit in committing to renewable electricity,

We’re delighted to welcome Eurostar to RE100, the first rail firm to join. Eurostar is setting a global example and leading the way on renewables powering our rail networks.

Eurostar now has the opportunity to draw on a global network of over 400 companies as it works towards 30 million journeys a year powered by 100% renewable electricity by 2030. We encourage other businesses in the rail sector to follow Eurostar’s lead and commit to 100% renewable electricity.

Eurostar’s progress towards sustainability is already evident, with its trains in the Netherlands powered by 100% wind energy since 2017 and achieving a 40% renewable energy usage in the UK since 2023. Collaborative efforts, such as the partnership with Infrabel in Belgium to explore solar energy projects, further demonstrate Eurostar’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.

As Eurostar strives to achieve its goal of transporting 30 million passengers sustainably by 2030, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to building the backbone of sustainable travel in Europe. With a focus on reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly practices, Eurostar aims to minimise its environmental impact while facilitating seamless and environmentally conscious travel experiences for its passengers.

For further information on Eurostar’s sustainability initiatives and how they impact your business travel experience, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Hyatt and Peloton join forces: earn rewards for wellness on the go

/in /by

A collaboration between Hyatt, a leading hospitality brand, and Peloton, the renowned fitness platform, aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of business travellers has been announced.

In a groundbreaking move, World of Hyatt, Hyatt’s esteemed loyalty program, is teaming up with Peloton to revolutionise the travel experience for its members.

By leveraging Peloton equipment available at Hyatt properties worldwide, loyalty members can now earn World of Hyatt points while engaging in their fitness routines during their stay. This innovative partnership marks the first of its kind in the global hospitality industry.

According to Hyatt booking data, travellers are increasingly prioritising health and wellbeing amenities when planning their trips.

Recognising this trend, Hyatt is strategically collaborating with Peloton to cater to the evolving needs of its guests.

In-room workouts: Peloton provides Members with expert instruction and world class content to create impactful and entertaining workout experiences for anyone, anywhere and at any stage in their fitness journey

The partnership aims to encourage guests to prioritise their wellbeing while travelling, offering them opportunities to engage in fitness activities seamlessly integrated into their hotel experience.

TJ Abrams, Vice President of Wellbeing at Hyatt, expressed the brand’s commitment to setting new standards in travel wellbeing, stating,

Hyatt takes pride in setting a new standard of wellbeing for travel with new collaborations, products, and experiences across our global portfolio.

Peloton Bikes will be deployed at over 800 Hyatt properties in countries where Peloton currently operates, including the UK, US, Canada, Germany, Austria and Australia.

Additionally, select Hyatt luxury and lifestyle hotels in the US will offer the Peloton Row. This extensive rollout demonstrates the commitment of both brands to promoting wellness on a global scale.

Greg Hybl, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Peloton for Business, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating,

We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Hyatt to give new and existing World of Hyatt members and guests the ability to prioritize their wellbeing during their travels.

In addition to access to Peloton equipment in hotel gyms, the collaboration will offer a range of wellbeing benefits to guests, Peloton Members and World of Hyatt members, including rewards for qualifying workouts, extended free trial of the Peloton App, special offers on Peloton equipment, and more.

Furthermore, the integration will allow guests at participating hotels to enjoy a curated selection of Peloton classes on in-room TVs, enabling them to maintain their fitness routines without leaving the comfort of their guest room.

As part of Hyatt’s commitment to holistic wellbeing, the collaboration with Peloton adds to the brand’s expansive roster of global wellbeing programming, including the Wellbeing Collective, which offers industry-leading wellbeing offerings and immersive experiences across Hyatt’s portfolio of brands.

This partnership between Hyatt and Peloton represents a significant step towards enhancing the travel experience for business travellers, empowering them to prioritize their wellbeing while on the road.

For further information on how to earn World of Hyatt points or to book any Hyatt hotel, worldwide, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Experience luxury and artistry at art’otel London Hoxton

/in /by

London’s vibrant Shoreditch neighbourhood has just become even more exciting with the opening of art’otel London Hoxton, a contemporary lifestyle hotel that seamlessly blends art, design, and hospitality.

Designed and adorned with artworks by the renowned Signature Artist D*Face, this hotel promises a one-of-a-kind experience for guests.

Situated in the heart of bustling Shoreditch, just a stone’s throw away from Old Street Underground station, art’otel London Hoxton offers easy access to the City, Liverpool Street Station, the new Elizabeth Line and all of London’s major airports.

With 357 art-inspired guest bedrooms and suites, each boasting unique skyline views, the hotel provides a haven for both business and leisure travellers alike.

art’otel Hoxton: seamlessly blending contemporary art, luxury hospitality, and vibrant cultural experiences in the heart of London’s bustling Shoreditch neighbourhood.

Signature Artist D*Face takes centre stage in the hotel’s concept and design, marking one of 2024’s most exciting openings. This marks the second UK opening for the art’otel brand, following the successful launch of art’otel London Battersea Power Station in February 2023.

Art enthusiasts and travellers seeking a unique experience will be delighted by the hotel’s offerings. From luxury suites, including the awe-inspiring 196m² D*Face Masterpiece Suite, to The Brush – an all-day Grand Cafe, Lounge and Cocktail Bar featuring European signature dishes and cocktails – the hotel caters to every need.

Later in the year, guests can look forward to a destination restaurant on the 25th floor, offering dazzling 360° panoramic views across the capital. Flexible event spaces on the 24th floor, launching in the summer, will provide the ideal setting for various occasions, from talks to presentations and fashion shows.

The hotel’s leisure facilities are equally impressive, featuring an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and gym. In the summer, a spectacular skyline gym on the 26th floor and a luxury spa with four treatment rooms will open, showcasing products and treatments from Proverb, known for their vegan, organic, and natural ingredients.

Cultural and artistic events are at the heart of the art’otel guest experience, with the art’beat programme featuring art, music, fashion, and wellness. Guests can explore the immersive 135m² art gallery, hosting exclusive works from Signature Artist D*Face and other local and emerging artists, adding to Hoxton’s rich cultural arts scene.

D*Face, known as one of the most prolific contemporary urban artists of his generation, has collaborated with award-winning interior design studio Digital Space to bring art to every corner of the hotel. From original large-scale sculptures to bespoke details, his influence is felt throughout the property.

Adding to the hotel’s allure are two Banksy original artworks on public display, complementing its magnificent cogwheel design created by the innovative architects at Squire & Partners.

art’otel London Hoxton promises a truly exhilarating and inspiring experience for guests, inviting them to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of art, culture, and luxury hospitality.

For further information about art’otel London Hoxton and its offerings, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Catch the summer vibes: JetBlue unveils Watch Parties and exciting onboard features

/in /by

JetBlue is set to usher in the summer season with a wave of new features and enhancements to its onboard experience.

From delectable snacks to entertainment options and personalised inflight experiences, the airline is gearing up to make your summer journeys even more enjoyable.

Beginning this May, JetBlue is introducing a range of new complimentary snacks, menu changes in its Mint and core experiences, additional entertainment options, and enhanced personalisation capabilities through Blueprint by JetBlue™.

One of the highlights of JetBlue’s summer offerings is the introduction of new complimentary snacks, catering to both sweet and savory preferences. Starting 1 May, travellers can indulge in Partake’s Classic Grahams, a simply sweet snack crafted with high-quality ingredients. Certified gluten-free, vegan, and free from the top nine allergens, these snacks provide an inclusive option for travelers with various dietary restrictions.

In June, savory enthusiasts can enjoy Safe+Fair®’s Everything Bagel Pretzels, lightly dusted with a signature top nine allergen-free onion and garlic spice blend.

JetBlue, known as New York’s Hometown Airline, is proud to welcome another New York-based brand, ALB® Vodka, to its roster of liquor options. Made from 100% American corn and gluten-free, this premium spirit reflects the energy of New York with its Upstate water and quadruple charcoal filtration.

Additionally, JetBlue is introducing new mixer options from Owen’s Craft Mixers, offering passengers the chance to craft their own refreshing cocktails at 30,000 feet.

Summer brings a burst of culinary delights onboard, with NYC-based restaurant Legacy Records serving up an array of mouthwatering dishes in Mint.

From strawberries drizzled in black pepper syrup to flat iron steak with roasted fennel, customers can savour a taste of summer at cruising altitude.

DIG is also adding seasonal farm-to-tray table dishes to JetBlue’s core experience, ensuring passengers enjoy fresh and satisfying meals throughout their journey.

Inflight entertainment gets an upgrade with the introduction of Blueprint by JetBlue. This personalised inflight experience platform offers customers more customisability, from planning their journey to arriving at their destination.

With features like watch parties and the ability to pick up where you left off, passengers can enjoy their favourite movies and TV shows seamlessly.

Movie buffs will rejoice with JetBlue’s new inflight ‘A24 Collection’, featuring award-winning films from global entertainment studio A24.

From captivating dramas to side-splitting comedies, there’s something for every cinephile to enjoy.

Additionally, JetBlue is set to launch a dedicated channel of the internet’s hottest interview show ‘Hot Ones’, providing passengers with exclusive entertainment at 30,000 feet.

To celebrate its upcoming seasonal service to Edinburgh, JetBlue is offering a curated selection of Scottish films and TV shows, including popular titles like Skyfall and Brave.

Passengers can immerse themselves in Scottish culture while enjoying the comfort of their seatback entertainment screens.

As summer approaches, JetBlue is committed to providing passengers with an exceptional travel experience. From delectable snacks to immersive entertainment options, the airline is dedicated to making your journey as enjoyable as possible.

For further details or to book your next flight, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager today.

Dave

SkyTeam and SAS Forge Alliance: enhanced benefits for EuroBonus members

/in /by

In a significant development for the aviation industry, SkyTeam and SAS, the flag carrier of Scandinavia, have officially inked an Alliance Adherence Agreement, paving the way for SAS to join SkyTeam on 1 September 2024.

This landmark agreement signifies a pivotal moment in the global airline alliance landscape, as SAS prepares to integrate seamlessly into SkyTeam, enriching the alliance with enhanced access to Scandinavian key hubs and bolstering its global network.

Andrés Conesa, SkyTeam Chairman, expressed the shared vision between SkyTeam and SAS, stating,

SAS shares SkyTeam’s vision when it comes to delivering a more integrated and responsible travel experience. Together with our members, we continue to work hard behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition for customers from the moment SAS joins our alliance.

Sky High: SAS CEO Anko van der Werff (left) celebrates with his SkyTeam counterpart Patrick Roux

Under this alliance, SAS customers are poised to reap numerous benefits. They can anticipate a more seamless travel experience with enhanced connectivity across SkyTeam’s extensive network of 1,060+ destinations. Notably, this collaboration opens up travel options to several previously unserved destinations across Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, offering SAS customers a broader spectrum of travel opportunities.

Furthermore, EuroBonus members stand to gain significantly from this alliance. Upon SAS’ integration into SkyTeam, EuroBonus Silver members will be recognised as SkyTeam Elite, while Gold and Diamond members will enjoy Elite Plus status. This translates to access to a network of 750+ airport lounges and SkyPriority services at eight key airport touchpoints, including priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.

Patrick Roux, SkyTeam CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for SAS joining the alliance, stating,

We are delighted to officially chart a path to SAS joining the SkyTeam alliance. With its global reputation for reliability, quality and service, SAS is a great fit for SkyTeam and, as we continue to strengthen our customer proposition, we look forward to being part of their future journey.

Anko van der Werff, SAS President and CEO, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the exciting prospects this alliance brings for customers, partners and employees alike.

He remarked,

EuroBonus members will be able to enjoy new destinations and benefits as part of the SkyTeam alliance family, marking the start of an exciting future for customers, partners and employees alike. SAS customers will benefit from SkyTeam’s strong global presence in many of the world’s major aviation hubs and from its focus on strategic partnerships and innovative sustainability initiatives.

As SAS embarks on this new chapter in its alliance journey, it continues to strengthen its ties with key SkyTeam members serving its hubs, including Air France, KLM, Delta Air Lines, and Middle East Airlines.

Flag carriers: SAS, Scandinavia’s leading airline, with main hubs in Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm, flies to destinations in Europe, USA and Asia

For further information about how this alliance impacts your business travel with SAS, reach out to your Global Travel Management Account Manager, who will be happy to provide you with detailed insights and assistance tailored to your travel needs.

Dave

Charting a greener future: Marriott’s path to net-zero emissions

/in /by

Marriott International, the global hospitality giant, has taken a monumental step forward in its commitment to sustainability by verifying its near and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets with the esteemed Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

As a frontrunner in the hospitality sector, Marriott is proud to announce its status as the largest global hospitality company to secure approval for both near-term and long-term science-based targets.

The initiative underscores Marriott’s dedication to mitigating its environmental footprint and contributing to global climate action efforts. The company has pledged to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by an impressive 46.2% by 2030, relative to a 2019 base year. Additionally, Marriott commits to slashing absolute scope 3 GHG emissions, encompassing various facets such as fuel and energy-related activities, waste generated in operations, employee commuting, and franchises, by 27.5% by 2030, also from a 2019 base year. Furthermore, by 2028, Marriott aims for 22% of its suppliers by emissions, covering purchased goods and services, capital goods, and upstream transportation and distribution, to adopt science-based targets.

Targeted action: to reach its net-zero targets, Marriott is focusing its efforts in three distinct areas

Looking towards the horizon, Marriott has set its sights on achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2050. This ambitious goal entails reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 90% and absolute scope 3 GHG emissions by 90% by 2050, both relative to a 2019 base year. Notably, the target boundary extends to include land-related emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks.

Anthony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International, expressed the company’s profound commitment to environmental stewardship, stating,

For nearly a century, Marriott has been committed to our core value of serving our world as we strive to be a force for good wherever we do business. The impact of climate change is being seen and felt across the globe. As we continue to connect people through the power of travel, we are committed to driving meaningful improvements to the environment and are energized by reaching this significant milestone.

Erika Alexander, Chief Global Operations Officer at Marriott International, emphasized the importance of collective action in combating climate change:

Marriott has been on a journey to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in our operations and supply chain. We believe it’s good business and good for the planet.

To realise its net-zero target, Marriott is honing in on three key areas: energy reduction, sourcing more energy from renewables, and purchasing goods with lower carbon footprints across its extensive portfolio of over 8,800 properties spanning 139 countries and territories.

Marriott’s recent sustainability initiatives underscore its proactive approach towards environmental responsibility.

The Climate Action Program (CAP) exemplifies the company’s commitment to embedding sustainability throughout its operations. Furthermore, Marriott is empowering its properties to embrace sustainability through initiatives such as the Energy Optimization Program and the Marriott Environment Sustainability Hub.

Marriott’s sustainability strategy encompasses a diverse array of tactics, including resource-efficient hotel design, technology adoption to track and reduce energy and water consumption, increasing renewable energy usage, and responsible sourcing practices. The company’s Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction platform epitomises its dedication to making a positive and sustainable impact on society, the environment, and the economy.

Marriott International’s pioneering efforts in setting science-based emissions reduction targets reaffirm its position as a leader in sustainable hospitality. As the company continues its climate action journey, it invites stakeholders to join hands in fostering a greener, more resilient future.

For further information on Marriott and to book hotel accommodation worldwide, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

New horizons: Lufthansa City Airlines begins journey with Munich-Birmingham route

/in /by

Lufthansa City Airlines, the latest addition to the Lufthansa Group, is set to take flight on 26 June, 2024, marking its debut with a maiden voyage from Munich to Birmingham.

This exciting development comes after the announcement that ticket sales commenced on 24 April, enabling eager travellers to secure their seats on feeder services for Lufthansa, as well as direct flights connecting Munich with a plethora of destinations.

Beers, bears: Lufthansa City Airlines start their service from beer capital Munich to Birmingham, the home of the Warwickshire Bears in June

The integration of Lufthansa City Airlines into the Lufthansa Group’s feeder network, particularly within the hubs of Frankfurt and Munich, promises seamless connectivity and convenience for passengers. Initially focusing on European and German domestic routes, such as Birmingham, Hanover and Düsseldorf, the airline is poised to expand its footprint across the continent in the near future.

With a forward-thinking approach to fleet expansion, Lufthansa City Airlines is set to soar with a fleet comprising Airbus A320 Family aircraft.

The commitment to sustainability and innovation is underscored by the procurement of 40 state-of-the-art Airbus A220-300 aircraft, along with an additional 20 purchase options, signalling a clear vision for the airline’s growth trajectory.

As the fleet expands, passengers can anticipate the addition of more European destinations to the airline’s network, further enhancing connectivity and accessibility.

Jens Fehlinger, Managing Director Operations of Lufthansa City Airlines, expressed enthusiasm for the future prospects of the airline, stating,

Lufthansa City Airlines is contributing to the future viability of the hubs in Munich and Frankfurt. We are looking forward to new modern Airbus A220 and A320neo deliveries in the coming years. For our guests and employees, we are driving forward our renewal and thus strengthening Lufthansa’s planned growth in long-haul traffic.

Passengers embarking on Lufthansa City Airlines flights can expect the renowned Lufthansa product and service offering, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey on short and medium-haul routes.

For further information or to book your next business trip with Lufthansa City Airlines, please reach out to your dedicated Global Travel Management Account Manager.