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Leveraging over 80 years of aviation expertise, explore the latest insights from the travel industry covering everything from opinion pieces and thought leadership to our latest product releases, technology updates, and more.

At CAVU, our mission is to create solutions that deliver measurable value for our customers and meaningful improvements for their passengers. 
The most effective way to achieve this is by building our roadmap hand-in-hand with the people who use our products and services every day. That’s why our Customer Advisory Board (CAB) is a cornerstone of our approach. 
Last month, we concluded our latest series of CAB sessions, bringing together a diverse group of airport leaders, operators, and innovators from across our customer network. These sessions provide an opportunity to share updates while also serving as a forum for honest conversation, constructive challenge, and collaborative problem-solving. The ideas and feedback we receive directly shape the direction of our business. 
Martin Jones, CAVU CEO, outlined why CAB matters to us and the benefit it brings our customers: 
<blockquote>Feedback gathered during our Customer Advisory Board is invaluable, but there&#8217;s to it than that. It provides a basis to develop a genuine partnership with our customers, ensuring we’re listening, learning, and building solutions that make a real difference. 
By understanding our customers’ challenges and ambitions first-hand, we can prioritise developments that deliver real value and provide tangible support moving forward.</blockquote>
While our teams bring expertise in technology, data, and commercial strategy, it is our customers who understand the day-to-day realities of airport operations, evolving passenger expectations, and local market dynamics. Their insight helps us focus on developments that will have the greatest impact. 
The CAB delivers invaluable first-hand insight. Hearing directly from customers ensures our solutions remain relevant, while bringing together diverse viewpoints helps us uncover opportunities and avoid blind spots. Every piece of feedback is reviewed, prioritised, and translated into actionable development plans. 
These sessions help us to: 
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="3" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Identify the features and services customers value most </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="3" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Prioritise enhancements with the biggest operational and commercial impact </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="3" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">Validate new concepts before committing to full development </li>
</ul>
This approach ensures our roadmap reflects the needs, challenges, and ambitions of our customers, rather than internal assumptions. 
Joel Godfrey, Digital Product Director at CAVU, shared his thoughts on the key role CAB plays in shaping our product strategy and development: 
<blockquote>Spending time with our clients, face-to-face, working through common challenges our customers face and opportunities to create a better, more connected trip in future is invaluable. 
It can be too easy to think you&#8217;re onto the next great thing &#8211; having the opportunity to stress test our roadmap and the freedom to collaborate on new ideas helps us be confident that what we&#8217;re building genuinely helps make travel seamless and enjoyable for everyone.</blockquote>
Over the coming months, we will translate that feedback into product improvements and new capabilities that deliver benefits for our customers and their passengers. 
We&#8217;re grateful to every member of the Customer Advisory Board for their time, expertise, and input. Together, we are shaping solutions that will define the future of airport experiences, and we look forward to continuing the conversation at our next CAB. 
<a href="https://signup.ca.vu">Sign up for our monthly newsletter</a> to access the latest CAVU updates, industry expertise, and ongoing updates about our product roadmap.

Learn how our annual Customer Advisory Board (CAB) plays a pivotal role in shaping our product roadmap at CAVU and how it benefits our customers. 

Sincerely Media DGxOgeXAXm8 Unsplash

How our Customer Advisory Board guides our roadmap

As passenger volumes continue to rise, airports are under increasing pressure to grow, not just by scaling their footprint, but by getting smarter about how they operate.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
For car park owners and operators, that means exploring new ways to maximise value from existing infrastructure, tap into passenger behaviour, and deliver the right products at the right price.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Whether your airport is established or a smaller regional hub, expansion doesn’t necessarily equate to making the site bigger. Often, the real opportunity lies in better commercial strategy, particularly around pricing, product segmentation, and customer data.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
In this article, we’ll share five tips for exploring practical ways your airport car park can grow profitably, sustainably, and in line with passenger expectations.

<h2>1) Use pricing as a strategic growth tool</h2>
For many airports, legacy pricing models are holding back commercial performance. A one-size-fits-all approach may feel easy to manage, but it rarely reflects diverse passenger needs.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Fixed pricing often leads to underperformance across key segments, i.e. short-stay parking may seem attractively priced but generate lower transaction value, while long-stay options can become prohibitively expensive and discourage bookings.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Smarter pricing unlocks smarter growth. Introducing dynamic elements, such as peak-time uplifts, helps match demand with value and makes better use of capacity. It also creates a foundation for longer-term strategy, allowing airports to optimise by season, stay duration, or lead time.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Many smaller airports lift their drive-up pricing structure and apply it online. But without adapting that strategy to digital behaviour, it’s a missed opportunity. Static pricing doesn’t differentiate between business and leisure travellers, short and long stays, or varying levels of price sensitivity, all of which are key to driving performance.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
<h2>2) Let customer data guide your decisions<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> </h2>
Data is critical to any airport’s commercial growth, and pricing is no exception. Yet many operators rely solely on transaction data, which tells only part of the story.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
To build a complete picture, you also need to understand what passengers are doing before they convert. Are they viewing a price and dropping off? Are they clicking through but abandoning at checkout?<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
This behavioural insight is where real optimisation starts. Layering CRM and website engagement data onto transactional trends allows you to build a comprehensive view of customer intent. If thousands of people are seeing a price but only a handful are booking, it’s a strong signal that something needs to change.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
The impact of using customer data well can be significant. Airports that act on this insight see stronger commercial returns, better conversion rates, and a clear uptick in modal share, with more passengers choosing parking over alternative transport options. It also unlocks more effective cross-selling and upselling opportunities, because you understand what people are likely to need next.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}">

<h2>3) Start small and scale confidently<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> </h2>
Expanding your car park business doesn’t mean implementing sweeping changes overnight. For many airports, especially those early in their digital maturity, gradual improvements are the most effective and manageable route to growth.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Introducing small dynamic pricing features, such as uplift during peak periods, gives you a chance to test customer sensitivity and gather insight before rolling out more advanced optimisation. This also reduces internal pressure, as teams aren’t overwhelmed, and customers aren’t disoriented by a complete overhaul of the booking experience.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
This step-by-step approach is especially valuable when you’re building up a data set. Most smaller airports start with limited insight, so beginning with manageable changes allows time to collect and interpret the right information before scaling.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
<h2>4) Match the appropriate customer with the right product<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> </h2>
Your car park products may be fixed, but your customer types aren’t. Matching people to the right product and pricing accordingly is a powerful way to increase revenue without increasing footprint. That requires clear product segmentation based on trip type, price sensitivity, and length of stay.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
For instance, business travellers on short trips may be willing to pay a premium for convenience, while long-stay leisure travellers are likely to seek out the best value option. Understanding and pricing for these distinct segments not only improves the customer experience, but it also helps airports optimise revenue across their entire portfolio.
Airports often make the common mistake of opening economy car parks to short-stay passengers to fill space. While that may boost short-term occupancy, it increases operational costs without lifting overall revenue. Over time, it also dilutes the appeal of those products to long-stay customers, who would otherwise deliver higher transaction values.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
By aligning product access and pricing with passenger intent, airports can serve each segment more effectively and avoid missed revenue opportunities.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}">

<h2>5) Invest in the right tools to enable growth<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> </h2>
Optimising your commercial strategy isn’t just about having the right ideas; it’s about having the right tools to act on them. That includes pricing platforms that allow for dynamic testing, segmentation, and real-time adjustments, as well as data systems that can ingest and analyse behavioural trends at scale.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
For airports looking to future-proof their operations, early investment in these systems is key. The sooner you start collecting and using customer data, the more impact you can make, from better price testing to more personalised offers. And over time, that enables smoother operations during peak periods, more targeted marketing, and stronger long-term planning.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Understanding expected modal share and evolving ground transport trends is another crucial factor. Without this insight, airports risk making pricing and capacity decisions based on outdated assumptions, which can impact everything from layout planning to service levels.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
For many airport operators, the biggest gains come from using what you already have more effectively and aligning it more closely with passenger needs.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
By embracing data, investing in smarter pricing, and tailoring your products to the way people travel, you can grow both revenue and customer loyalty. And by making changes gradually and strategically, even smaller airports can future-proof their parking operations in a way that feels manageable and sustainable.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
The more clearly you understand demand, and the more confidently you can respond to it, the stronger your commercial outcomes will be.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}">

Explore five tips for exploring practical ways your airport car park can grow profitably, sustainably, and in line with passenger expectations

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Five business expansion tips for airport car park owners and operators

In today’s climate, airports can’t afford to stand still. Passenger numbers may be rising, but sustainable revenue growth takes more than recovery; it calls for a smarter, more strategic approach. 
Join us on Wednesday, 10th September, for a follow-up to our previous webinar, <a href="https://ca.vu/insights/reimagining-airport-value-webinar/">Reimagining airport value: The future of revenue beyond the runway</a>, in which we’ll turn insight into action, with practical steps you can take to drive results. 
From building loyalty through personalisation to forging stronger partnerships and using technology to make faster, smarter decisions, this discussion will explore what’s working now and how you can get started, with a discussion guided entirely by questions from our audience.
Whether your airport is small and growing or large and established, you’ll come away with clear, actionable ideas to help you grow revenue in a competitive landscape.
<h2 aria-level="2">Why attend? </h2>
This webinar is designed to help you move beyond the numbers and uncover real ways to take steps towards driving revenue growth. 
You’ll gain practical insights on how to: 
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Build customer loyalty through smarter, more relevant experiences </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Strengthen commercial partnerships that boost long-term value </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">Use technology and data to make faster, more confident decisions </li>
</ul>
<h2 aria-level="2">Reserve your place today</h2>
<a href="https://signup.ca.vu/webinar-sept25/">CLICK HERE</a> to secure your place and gain practical strategies on driving growth, loyalty, and revenue.

Register for our upcoming webinar and get clear, actionable strategies to increase revenue in a competitive landscape.

Artboard 8September Webinar (1)

Reimagining airport value: Actionable tips for maximising revenue in an evolving market [Webinar]

We&#8217;re thrilled to announce that we&#8217;ve signed a new multi-year contract with Ryanair, Europe’s largest airline, to power a more seamless travel experience for millions of passengers.
This expanded agreement brings our longstanding services under one strategic contract, strengthening our role as a core infrastructure partner in Ryanair’s digital ecosystem, deepening collaboration, and unlocking new revenue opportunities across their European network.
Building on more than a decade of collaboration, the new agreement formalises and extends our relationship with Ryanair. Previously delivered through separate agreements across ParkVia, Looking4, and MAG, the partnership is now unified under the CAVU brand. As part of the agreement, we&#8217;ll deliver airport parking, fast-track security, and transfers across a significant portion of Ryanair’s network. 
This deeper integration marks a pivotal shift in how Ryanair delivers ancillary services. By embedding the propel™ API directly into its digital platforms, Ryanair can now offer a fully native booking experience, providing customers greater control, speed, and value across the journey.  
“Our relationship with Ryanair began over a decade ago through our B2C brands,” said Martin Jones, CEO at CAVU. “What began as a marketplace offering has grown into a strategic infrastructure partnership. This latest agreement brings them closer to the passenger and delivering measurable value in both revenue and customer experience.”  
Greg O’Gorman, Director of Ancillary Revenue at Ryanair, said:
<blockquote>Ryanair is pleased to partner with CAVU in delivering an enhanced digital experience for our customers across Europe. As Europe’s No.1 airline, we’re committed to offering passengers the best choice and value, not just in the air, but throughout their journey.
Through our collaboration with CAVU, we’re improving access to airport services like parking and fast track, while delivering a seamless, tech-led experience that our customers expect.</blockquote>
The agreement reflects our shared ambition to grow and evolve the digital passenger experience while unlocking greater value from ancillary services.

We're thrilled to announce that we've signed a new multi-year contract with Ryanair, Europe’s largest airline, to power a more seamless travel experience for millions of passengers.

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CAVU and Ryanair extend partnership to enhance airport travel

As airports look to the future, they face increasing pressure to improve passenger experiences while driving commercial growth.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Achieving this means combining technology, data, and people to create a truly connected travel journey, one that benefits passengers, airports, airlines, and partners alike.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
To dive into these challenges and opportunities, we recently hosted the webinar Reimagining Airport Value: The Future of Revenue Beyond the Runway, bringing together industry experts Nolan Hough, Chief Growth Officer, CAVU, Mathilde Burtin-Bell, Head of Commercial Services – Ancillaries &amp; Marketplace, CAVU and Albert Jan Prevoo, Captain of the FTE World Ancillary &amp; Retailing Working Group.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
In this Q&amp;A, we share their insights from that session on where airports should focus investment, how to evolve commercial measurement, the complexities of personalisation, and the need for a collaborative mindset across the industry.
CAVU: Where should airports prioritise their investment? Platforms, integrations, AI, or staff capabilities?<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Albert: I think it&#8217;s all of the above. They’re all relevant. I would say, first of all, really look at staffing. It needs to begin with a clear management agenda. You have to be sure this is something you really want to do. For that, you need to provide a proper understanding of your commercial strategy, the role you want to take yourself, and how you want to involve your partners.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
So, it starts with investing in your people first. You need an organisation with the right capabilities, and again, an agile approach, a real readiness to change. Secondly, you need a clear understanding of the data foundation. For that, you need the right data and tech stack to allow a unified platform, enable information sharing, and have actionable data.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
When it comes to AI strategy, there are many possibilities to apply it, but you must focus on where you think the biggest impact can be made. Build a roadmap with the right applications and proof of concepts. For example, <a href="https://ca.vu/insights/why-is-dynamic-pricing-in-car-parks-key-to-boosting-revenue/">dynamic pricing</a>, passenger recognition, and even operational tasks like ensuring the right stock in shops or appropriate staffing.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
To achieve this, you need a good platform, an integrated system that connects all stakeholders and creates a more seamless process. But it all comes down to having the right approach, the right roadmap, and starting to work together on that. It’s about feasibility, capabilities, data, and the platform to integrate everything.

CAVU: If airports want to build a more connected, customer-focused journey, how should commercial measurement evolve to reflect that shift?<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Mathilde: I think it’s about moving beyond revenue per passenger to basket value per transaction, conversion rate across touchpoints, repeat purchase frequency, and so on. One risk is that silos still exist, so breaking through with joined-up KPIs is key. For example, working around OKRs rather than siloed objectives, with goals shared across the board.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
KPIs should reflect an ecosystem or holistic performance, not individual product silos. Without that, you won’t have the cultural shift needed within the airport, that transition from siloed to integrated journeys. Through these KPIs, you show the business’s intent and commitment.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Real success is when a passenger books three services on one floor, not just one, but everyone looks beyond their silos and brings everything into one place. That’s the biggest recommendation I have.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}">

CAVU: A connected, passenger-centric approach is often driven by personalisation and better use of data. How does this work, and what steps do airports put in place to move forward?<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Nolan: Delivering <a href="https://ca.vu/insights/personalised-travel/">personalisation during the passenger journey</a> is tricky. Every customer changes their product choice based on why they’re travelling, who with, how long for, who’s paying, and how far in advance they book; all these factors affect buying decisions.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
For example, product choices for a family trip differ from those of a two-day business trip.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
You need other data points and indicators to offer the right products and services. Many talk about personalisation as if you’ll know everything about a passenger and offer exactly what they need at the right time, but it falls apart if they bought something else 10 minutes ago or through a different channel.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
The key is connecting data in real time and having those indicators. The industry is very fragmented. For example, when booking a flight, airports often don’t know the destination, so it’s hard to offer relevant products.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
That’s where the ecosystem matters. If airports and airlines collaborate, you can join those experiences and indicators to move toward personalisation and more relevant offers.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Fragmentation is the biggest challenge because every stakeholder wants to own the customer. But really, no one owns the customer; each party has the right to communicate at different journey points.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
If you think like that, you might be willing to share data or insights as long as there’s a win-win-win: a win for the airline, the airport, and the passenger.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Only when everyone gains value from the connected trip does the magic happen. Having rich data scattered is useless unless you connect it all.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
For example, if a customer looks on the airport website, you can push them relevant offers promo codes for sun care products, which are relevant if they’re heading to a sunny destination. This real-time personalisation uses indicators like website behaviour, Wi-Fi logins, airline destination data, or app searches to push relevant promo codes.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Retailers, like duty-free shops, also benefit from targeted spend, while airports and passengers win from relevant offers and discounts.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
It’s not just about systems but aligned goals and integration between ecosystems to overcome travel fragmentation, the big problem we all try to solve.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
It’s like Amazon connecting customers with suppliers in a marketplace. We want to create a similar marketplace for airports and travel, connecting inventory providers like fast track, lounges, or parking with passengers, so you could recommend ‘If you bought this, would you like that?’<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
In the future, experiential offers will be huge. Airports like Changi or Doha offer amazing experiences, but regional airports don’t, yet customers would love to book those experiences pre-trip.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
That’s the thinking we need to be supported: <a href="https://ca.vu/platform/">a platform to connect all those offers</a>.

CAVU: How do we shift the industry mindset from siloed thinking to a more collaborative, joined-up approach? 
Mathilde: I believe we need to move away from managing individual products in isolation and instead orchestrate the entire passenger experience.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
We need to stop measuring success by individual product margin alone. Instead, we should focus on customer lifetime value across the whole journey. That requires an agile, test-and-learn approach.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
I’m a big advocate of test and learn. For example, with <a href="https://ca.vu/insights/what-is-product-bundling-and-why-does-it-work-for-airports/">product bundles</a>, we didn’t know which add-ons would attach best to products. So, we started by applying the same bundle to all car park products.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Quickly, we realised that certain products, like meet-and-greet parking, attract customers who are more likely to also purchase fast-track lounge access, so the potential stretch in spend is much greater.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Pilot bundles are a great way to start. There’s always a risk in holding back because you want all the answers upfront.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Look at Netflix: they run multiple tests every day, trying different pricing and offers to see what works. You can either predict customer behaviour or put something out there and learn from the data.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Collaboration across product categories, travel insurance, hotels, car parks, with joint marketing and partnerships rather than silos is essential. It needs to be a win-win situation. If we compete internally, nothing will shift.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Nolan: To build on the importance of collaboration, going back to 2017, when we started building our tech platform, we had to scale rapidly from a team of 4 to about 150 in 18 months. Our initial focus was speed and agility: test hypotheses quickly, get results fast, then iterate, pivot, or double down.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Then <a href="https://ca.vu/customer-stories/a-positive-shift-in-brisbane-airports-metrics/">Brisbane airport</a> came to us wanting to use the platform we built for Manchester. That’s when it clicked: the best ideas come from our clients. Airports and airlines tell us what features or solutions they need to solve their pain points, and those insights help everyone.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Our tech team is small compared to giants like Uber or Amazon, who have thousands of engineers, so we can’t go it alone. But if airports and airlines collaborate, sharing best practices, solving common problems together, we can move faster and compete better.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Right now, everyone is competing against everyone else: OTAs versus airlines, airlines versus OTAs, airports competing with each other. But if we unite around common pain points, build better features, and make travel easier and more profitable, everyone wins.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
Collaboration, not competition, is how we create value and reduce fragmentation.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
We host an annual client advisory board with partners from airports, airlines, OTAs, and others to discuss roadmaps and pain points. We build solutions together that help them, and help us, because airports aren’t really competing in non-air revenues like parking or lounges.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
For example, London City and Stansted use our tech even though they’re competitors, because we help solve their challenges without direct conflict.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}"> 
<h2 aria-level="2">Lay the foundation for connected travel with Propel™ </h2>
The future of connected, personalised travel depends on airports investing in the right mix of people, data, and AI, all tied together under a cohesive commercial strategy, and having the right technology in place is pivotal to driving long-term success.
<a href="https://signup.ca.vu/fte-webinar/">Access our latest webinar session</a> to learn more and hear from industry experts Nolan Hough, Chief Growth Officer, CAVU, Mathilde Burtin-Bell, Head of Commercial Services – Ancillaries &amp; Marketplace, CAVU and Albert Jan Prevoo, Captain of the FTE World Ancillary &amp; Retailing Working Group.

Explore insights on where airports should focus investment, how to evolve commercial measurement, the complexities of personalisation, and the need for a collaborative mindset across the industry. 

Rocker Sta RSYBi 1fhfM Unsplash

What areas should airports prioritise to deliver connected, personalised travel?

We’re proud to announce a new partnership with Datalex, a market leader in airline ecommerce solutions. This collaboration will transform how ancillary products are offered to passengers across major airline booking journeys.
Through this partnership, CAVU’s portfolio of third-party airport ancillaries – such as fast track, parking and lounge access – will be integrated into Datalex’s Stellex Platform, its market-leading Offer &amp; Order Management System, via a direct API connection.
This integration will enhance Stellex’s existing ancillary offering by enabling Datalex’s airline partners to manage and sell a broader set of products within the booking flow, creating a more seamless experience for passengers while driving higher conversion rates for airlines and airports.
While CAVU already powers white-label solutions for Datalex partners such as Aer Lingus and easyJet, this marks the first time our offers will be embedded directly into their core booking journey, meeting customers when purchase intent is highest.
Alan Dunne, Chief Product Officer at Datalex, said:
<blockquote>The most exciting part of working with CAVU is being able to offer our airline clients global airport services through a single integration and speedy time to market.</blockquote>
With both teams aligned on improving the passenger experience and unlocking new revenue opportunities, Nolan Hough, Chief Growth Officer at CAVU, shares his view on the partnership:
<blockquote>We’re delighted to be partnering with Datalex, who play a key role in helping CAVU connect our inventory with airlines and their customers. Their product, technology, expertise and culture are a great fit with ours, and we’re excited to see our partnership continue to grow.</blockquote>
With the agreement finalised and technical integration underway, we&#8217;re looking forward to expanding the partnership in the months to come.
We’re excited to work closely with Datalex to help shape the future of connected travel, delivering greater value for passengers while driving commercial growth for airlines, airports, and their partners.

Discover how we’ve partnered with Datalex to include airport products within airline booking flows, enhancing experiences and boosting conversions.

Insights and innovation

Reimagining airport value: Actionable tips for maximising revenue in an evolving market [Webinar]

CAVU and Ryanair extend partnership to enhance airport travel

How our Customer Advisory Board guides our roadmap

How our Customer Advisory Board guides our roadmap

Five business expansion tips for airport car park owners and operators

Reimagining airport value: Actionable tips for maximising revenue in an evolving market [Webinar]

CAVU and Ryanair extend partnership to enhance airport travel

What areas should airports prioritise to deliver connected, personalised travel?

CAVU partners with Datalex to include airport products within airline booking journeys