gategroup Buys 75% of KLM Catering Services, Plans New Schiphol Facility

‍ZURICH — A global player in airline catering and hospitality, gategroup has entered an agreement with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL) whereby gategroup will acquire a majority stake in KLM Catering Services (KCS).

“We are pleased to have found a strong and specialized partner in gategroup, with many years of experience in airline catering. We will remain involved in the catering on board our flights, ensuring the quality and service our passengers expect from KL. We look forward to working together.” Bas Brouns, CFO, KLM, said.

New stakeholder in KCS

After finalising the transaction, gategroup will acquire a 75% stake in KCS, with KL retaining a 25% share. This structure ensures a shared commitment to the business's long-term success while allowing KL to focus on its core airline operations.

“This partnership with KLM represents an important step forward for our business in Europe. Together, we will continue to enhance performance, reliability, and the overall customer experience. To support our joint ambition, we will build a new facility at Schiphol, Amsterdam, enabled by our know-how, at the highest environmental standards and with the latest technology and innovation.” Herman Anbeek, gategroup President Europe, said.

Innovation and sustainability

The landmark transaction establishes a long-term strategic partnership designed to redefine the future of in-flight catering for KL at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).

The partnership merges gategroup’s global culinary expertise and operational scale with KCS’s deep-rooted heritage and local experience.

It also allows KL to sharpen its strategic focus on core airline operations while leveraging gategroup’s specialized global expertise to elevate its catering services.

Enhanced catering facility

To support the partnership’s ambitious goals, gategroup will invest in a flagship catering facility at AMS.

This facility will be designed to set a new global benchmark for the industry by integrating advanced automation, the highest environmental sustainability standards, and a modern work environment dedicated to employee well-being.

Together, the partners are dedicated to delivering a distinctive onboard experience for KL passengers, defined by operational reliability, culinary innovation, and a shared commitment to sustainability.

Learn more about gategroup's operations from special guest Jens Kuhlen, President for North America at Gategroup, as he and the Airways Podcast crew delve deep into the intricacies of the airline catering industry. Listen here or on you favorite podcast catcher.