CABIN INTERIORS The Bucher Group: Next-generation galleys
The Bucher Group focuses on highly customized galleys and stowages in the linefit and retrofit markets and mainly serves Airbus and Boeing platforms. It specializes in durable and lightweight aluminium and composite galleys; the innovative combination of select materials allows it to reduce every unnecessary gram of weight and make optimal use of available space. And thanks to its highly skilled professionals, the company aims to provide Swiss-quality products with a reliable and long-lasting design. The company is currently working on the next-generation galleys, where the idea is to enable galleys to communicate by integrating intelligent power management solutions and features like inventory management and a cashpoint system. The goal is making catering processes more efficient, based on the data generated in flight. In terms of trends, airline customers are increasingly demanding design features like branding elements to be placed on galleys, notes Günter Müllers, Director Sales and Programs Galley, Executive Board of Bucher Leichtbau AG. Because they are often placed in the entrance areas, these monuments support the airlines’ corporate identity. “We also see a rising demand for galleys that can convert into self-service counters. The idea is to make food and beverages available for passengers during non-service hours.” Currently, Bucher is market leader in galley provision on the A330neo, and its galleys can be found in many customer
A rendering of AIM Altitude’s 2018 AIX show galley’s main view
18 | PAX TECH | MARCH/APRIL 2019
“We see a rising demand for galleys that can convert into self-service counters,” says Günter Müllers, Director Sales and Programs Galley, Executive Board of Bucher Leichtbau AG
versions of this new aircraft, including launch customer TAP Air Portugal. “As long as airlines look for individualization and therefore customization, as well as reliable products and comprehensive service, we see a lot more opportunities in this sector,” says Müllers. However, he sees price as one of the main challenges, as customers have become “more and more price-sensitive.” Lead time is also an issue. Müllers says that because aircraft manufacturers are trying to keep sales numbers up, especially for A330 and 777, short-term production slots have become available and filling these slots typically results in very short lead-times for suppliers. “Due to our efficient processes and our size, Bucher has been very agile and can respond to such demands quickly.” Turning to the outlook, Müllers observes that, according to the Airbus and Boeing forecasts, the demand for new aircraft will increase further, and the major demand will be in the Far East. “We are very curious to see when airlines will take the step toward the next-generation galley,” he concludes.
AIM Altitude: A passenger-friendly space
AIM Altitude is currently offering galleys for A330, 737, 777 and 777X. They are designed to offer class-leading quality and ergonomics, with a strong focus on whole-of-life value.