Royal Air Maroc's Strategic Acquisition of Atlas Servair
In a significant move that underscores its commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has announced the acquisition of the remaining 40% stake in Atlas Servair, thus taking complete control of the catering service provider. This strategic decision, made public by the Moroccan Competition Council, marks a pivotal moment in the restructuring of the aviation value chain in Morocco, particularly as the country witnesses a resurgence in air traffic following recent global challenges. By acquiring the full capital and voting rights of Atlas Servair, RAM positions itself as the sole shareholder, thereby streamlining its operations and enhancing its competitive edge in the aviation market.
This acquisition is set against the backdrop of Casablanca's growing prominence as a regional hub, with Mohammed V Airport playing a crucial role in facilitating increased passenger traffic. The onboard catering services provided by Atlas Servair are deemed essential not only for passenger experience but also for the overall competitiveness of airlines in the region. With a well-established presence in major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, and recently Rabat, Atlas Servair is integral to the Moroccan aviation landscape, having evolved from its origins as Atlas Catering Airlines Services (ACAS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of RAM prior to its capital opening.
A New Era for Onboard Catering
The partnership between Royal Air Maroc and Servair began in 2013 when RAM sought a global strategic partner for its catering services amidst a push for product enhancement and cost competitiveness. This collaboration enabled Servair, a leading player in the global catering sector, to acquire a 40% share in ACAS, which was subsequently rebranded as Atlas Servair. The partnership aimed to leverage Servair's industrial expertise, quality standards, and international network to modernize onboard catering, optimize operational costs, and support the growth of the subsidiary. At that time, Atlas Servair employed around 750 individuals and had the capacity to produce approximately 35,000 meals daily for a range of airlines, including RAM.
The recent announcement of RAM's exclusive takeover of Atlas Servair signifies the culmination of a longstanding partnership and heralds a new phase in the airline's operational strategy. This transition from a joint venture with Servair aligns with RAM's 2023–2037 development plan, which focuses on expanding its fleet and increasing traffic. By fully integrating its catering services, Royal Air Maroc aims to enhance the agility of its onboard offerings while capturing the value generated from this crucial aspect of air travel amidst increasing air traffic flows from Morocco.
As reported by aeronautique.ma.
