Dubai-based air services provider dnata has enhanced its global catering operations with the opening a new facility in Canberra, the capital of Australia.
Representing an investment of AUD$6.5 million ($4.6 million), the newest dnata facility allows the company to create capacity for further growth in Australia.
dnata’s kitchen is built over two levels to maximise space, and includes six chill rooms, a deep freeze, storeroom, and an area for ‘plating up’ meals.
dnata currently prepares more than 60,000 inflight meals in Canberra every month, serving a wide range of customers from commercial airlines to charter airlines carrying VIPs, government officials and military.
Hiranjan Aloysius, CEO of dnata catering Australia, said: “Following the successful completion of our acquisition of Qantas’ catering business, we are thrilled to celebrate another significant milestone in Australia.
“This facility enhances our ability to delight our customers and their customers, accelerates our growth and expands our market offering. It also supports our growth in non-airline markets – from retail supply to large scale food supply opportunities.”
dnata entered the Australian inflight catering market with the acquisition of Alpha Flight Group in 2010.
In November, dnata completed the acquisition of Qantas Airways’ catering businesses, cementing its place as Australia’s leading inflight caterer.
dnata also operates a premium quality airport lounge at Melbourne Airport through its hospitality brand, marhaba.
dnata today offers quality catering services from 15 facilities in Australia, serving 45 airlines at nine airports with a team of over 3,000 customer-oriented employees.
Outside of Australia, dnata has invested significantly to grow its global catering network – including the opening of a catering facility in Dublin, Ireland and the acquisition of New York-based caterer 121 Inflight Catering.
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