The holidays are all about gathering with loved ones to spend time with one another, but at Christmastime many people find themselves alone in the airport. This year, KLM decided to put an end to feelings of loneliness in its Amsterdam Airport Schiphol by hosting the 'Bonding Buffet.'
A large round table was set up to serve dinner to a group of people, but it was rigged in a way that suspended it all high up in the air. As more people filled the seats around the table, the weight-activated buffet began to gradually drop to a comfortable height for eating. With all of the seats filled, dinner was served to a table of strangers, who were able to bond with one another over a comforting meal.
With the Bonding Buffer, KLM reports that it helped to bring together 60 people of 20 different nationalities to share Christmas meals.
Shared Airport Buffets
KLM's 'Bonding Buffet' Connects Travelers Who are Alone in the Airport
Trend Themes
1. Shared Airport Experiences - The trend of shared airport experiences presents opportunities for airlines and airports to create unique and meaningful connections among travelers.
2. Loneliness Alleviation - The trend of alleviating loneliness in public spaces opens up possibilities for businesses to provide emotional support and enhance social interactions.
3. Interactive Dining Experiences - The trend of interactive dining experiences offers opportunities to create innovative and engaging ways for strangers to connect over a meal.
Industry Implications
1. Travel and Hospitality - The travel and hospitality industry can leverage shared airport experiences to enhance customer satisfaction and foster a sense of community among travelers.
2. Event Planning - The event planning industry can capitalize on the need for loneliness alleviation by organizing unique gatherings and activities that facilitate social connections.
3. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry can create interactive dining experiences that bring people together, fostering a sense of inclusivity and camaraderie.