NEWS
SUPPLIER
Sanitizing wipes, sustainability and comfort products remain in demand, says RMT Global Partners It seems developments are moving faster than ever during the pandemic, but RMT Global Partners tells PAX International orders for many key products remain consistent among its customers. “We have a strong demand for sanitizing wipes and bulk canisters of galley and cockpit wipes,” says RMT President and CEO Richard Tuttle, adding that the company is investing in US-based production facilities for sanitizing wipes. The goal is to help its customers counter the increases in freight cost and lead times for products. Meanwhile, demand for passenger personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves, has dropped because more and more passengers prefer to bring their own, he says. Sustainable and eco-friendly options are still trending; and among RMT’s most popular are paper and pulp-based products. To respond to this demand, the supplier has introduced a range of bagasse meal items, including cutlery and ovenable dishes. The lightweight bagasse cutlery is strong, 100 percent biodegradable and an alternative to traditional or wooden cutlery. The ovenable bagasse dishes can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius for 45 minutes when used in conjunction with RMT’s aluminum foils and lids. The 100 percent compostable dishes are available in varying sizes and can be customized with customer logo. When it comes to comfort products, Tuttle says there are signs of industry recovery and passenger confidence.
“We have received a number of enquiries for new blankets and bedlinen, which is a good indication that airlines are looking ahead to a better future with more international travel as these items are more frequently used on long-haul flights.” RMT offers a range of textiles, including rPET blankets and polyester woven blankets that are designed to withstand frequent sanitizing laundry cycles.
RMT has introduced a range of bagasse meal items in response to the demand for eco-friendly products
COMPANY
John Horsfall acquires Orvec John Horsfall has announced the purchase of Orvec, welcoming the passenger comfort product supplier into the Group. Orvec is especially known for its in-cabin textile products, with particular focus on non-woven items. The acquisition allows John Horsfall to diversify its product range. “This is a fantastically positive acquisition for our business, with many synergies in terms of product area and customer base,” said Peter Horsfall Benson, Managing Director at John Horsfall.
8 OCTOBER 2021
Through the acquisition, John Horsfall will retain Orvec’s UK and China production facilities, with all sales enquiries, order processing and account managing happening in-house at John Horsfall’s Huddersfieldbased headquarters in West Yorkshire. The main point of contact for Orvec’s USA customers remains Erick Ray, while all other sales and customer servicesrelated enquiries regarding airlines and train products will be handled by Ellie Parkes of John Horsfall.