United Upgrades Coffee to Illy Brand
Ryan Boyd July 06, 2016
As of July 1, United Airlines has switched its previously unpopular house brand of coffee to Italian roasting company illy for coffee available for passengers aboard its flights. “United chose illy as our global coffee partner because they represent the gold standard of premium coffee and they share our commitment to creating an elevated, distinctive experience for our customers,” said Jimmy Samartzis, United’s VP of Food Services and United Clubs. “We acted on customer feedback and are delivering a product our employees are proud to serve, while bringing excellence and passion to every one of the 72 million cups of coffee we serve inflight every year.” The beverage switch is part of United’s attempt to improve its public image after a series of PR missteps since its 2010 merger with Continental Airlines – the airline has been plagued by continual reservation system glitches, issues with punctuality, and baggage handling errors, all have which have resulted in a surge in customer complaints.
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[Photo: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS]
