IFSA Review
“Surpassing all expectations”
Jo Austin and Sue Williams report back on a highly energised and well-attended IFSA Conference and Exhibition in Long Beach, California
The IFSA 2012 Annual Conference & Exhibition, co-located for the third consecutive year with the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), welcomed 860 visitors, a 15% increase in attendees over 2011 and included professionals from across the onboard services industry. IFSA welcomed a massive 12% increase in airline attendees over 2011. Marketed as an airline ‘super show’ and as the ‘industry event of the year’, the co-location offered opportunities for IFSA and APEX attendees to explore the many different products available to enhance the overall passenger experience.
The busy IFSA Exhibition floor featured over 160 exhibitors, representing an 11% increase over the 2011 Exhibition in Seattle. This included 21 new exhibitors to complement the many loyal IFSA member companies who continually provide generous support. During his opening remarks at the Conference, IFSA president, David Loft noted: “The IFSA Board of Directors has revised the Association’s objectives to expand IFSA’s scope beyond food and beverage and integrate other elements of the customer experience. He also reviewed the activities of the Government Affairs and Education Committee, the Communications Advisory Council and the IFSA Foundation. Lastly, David encouraged members to become more involved in the global efforts to advance the IFSA mission and objectives.”
Conference: Are you formal or casual?
Delegates were given an early morning wake- up by Mimi Donaldson of MimiSpeaks! who entertained us with insights on the differences in communication among team members and clients. Mimi dipped into her huge handbag more than once to show how her formal approach to life ensures that she can find every item inside because everything has its place. The more casual among us prefer to avoid all formality and leave more to luck. Are
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www.onboardhospitality.com
you one of those people who likes to arrive at the airport with three hours to spare or do you prefer to arrive just as the plane is about to depart? Plenty of food for thought and skills to set for successful negotiations: preparation, setting limits, maintaining emotional distance, listening, being clear and closing any deal.
Innovation and efficiency
“We found the conference to be a very positive experience. It provided a comfortable environment to engage in productive yet relaxed conversations with customers and other industry partners.”
Damien Flynn, cco – Airline Solutions, Gate Gourmet North America Division
Dave Hilfman, svp worldwide sales, with United Airlines took to the stage to discuss how industry leaders must continue to innovate, adapt and improve efficiency to maintain their position. He shared the story of the steps United Airlines is employing to transform its culture, cultivate relationships with customers and enhance efficiency in business operations.
Many congratulations to the Confererence Planning Committee, chaired by Paul Normand, on another hugely successful event.
Main photo: Vicky Stennes with Denise Poole, ceo of AMI, who presented the AMI scholarship award to the 2012 recipient, Todd Traynor-Corey with United Airlines, below: conference delegates take it all in
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