Gategroup is reporting increasing demand for its ePax end-to-end digital retail solution as airlines restart operations across the world.

The company’s next-generation platform allows passengers to use their own hand-held devices to peruse an extensive range of products and destination services by accessing a retail web service.

It can serve as a standalone system or be integrated within existing inflight connectivity platforms.

The intelligent platform is powered by leading data science and technology partner Black Swan Data.

‘BREAKING OPEN THE TROLLEY’

Social prediction tools help to forecast consumer preferences and traveller demands to enhance passenger experiences and drive additional value, says global airline catering, onboard and equipment solutions provider gategroup.

In turn, ePax is said to improve cabin efficiency by reducing or removing the need for airline crew to undertake several steps in the service model.

Federico Germani, Chief Commercial Officer at gategroup said: “Until now, we have been limited by what we can stock on the trolley. Tomorrow, we are only bound by the appetite of the passenger.

“EPax ‘breaks open’ the trolley, delivering new options in a contactless manner through this true digital transformation. The most important step for airlines right now is to ensure passenger and crew safety as the world starts flying again.

“Airlines are seeking retail technology that is effective in this new operational setting. In parallel to safety and efficiency, we also want to strengthen airlines’ ancillary revenue streams, particularly by widening the portfolio of products relevant to a passenger’s journey.”

Black Swan Data CEO Steve King added: “We have seen increased demand from carriers who want to digitalise their retail offer. EPax’s innovations, including data-driven mobile product stores, digital payment options, and intelligent recommendations, help airlines deliver safer on-board retail models, while enhancing passenger choice and ancillary revenues.”

Gateretail has delivered a range of digital innovations over the past few years in association with Black Swan Data, with a new iOS eCrew solution already in service with many carriers.