Avianca appoints Versilia Solutions to launch Buy on Board

Onboard retail provider Versilia Solutions has been appointed by South American carrier Avianca as its Buy on Board partner.

Avianca will be launching its Buy on Board service from 1 December 2022, with Versilia Solutions creating the carrier a bespoke Buy on Board retail offering across all aspects of the retail value chain.

Versilia Solutions says this includes providing training for the airline’s 2,000 plus cabin crew, creating a compliant and robust trading infrastructure and developing a retail service for domestic and international flights from Avianca’s five operating countries.

The implementation of Avianca’s Buy on Board solution follows the carrier’s decision to adopt a new business model that combines the best of its 100 years’ operating with the practicality and flexibility of the low-cost world.

Versilia says the company combines practical knowledge of Buy Onboard and travel retail with expertise across airlines, high street retail, hospitality, analytics, catering, technology and logistics. They understand the challenges and complexities of what is a non-core activity for an airline, and create solutions irrespective of size, logistics or level of complexity.

Caroline Ulbrich, CEO of Versilia Solutions, commented: “Welcoming Avianca to our client list is a big milestone; one which marks an ambitious period of strategic growth for the business.

“We recognise the challenges airlines of all sizes face in developing their ancillary revenue streams and are there to support and guide them to solve any possible issues that might surface. Our approach is unique because we are not wedded to a particular systems, product or logistic solution. Our independence means we find the most competitively priced products and services to our customers. As a result, we are the quickest to react when an airline has need and can remain flexible throughout our partnership as their operational model changes and the retail needs and expectations of their passengers evolves.

“We have some of the most experienced in-air retail experts in the industry, meaning that we understand the obstacles and risks associated with transitioning and building an airline retail programme. We believe that is why Avianca have placed their trust in Versilia to support them in taking this major step and we will not let them down.”