Hoogstraten, Belgium, 25 June 2025 – deSter, a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative food packaging and serviceware for the travel and foodservice industries, is proud to announce that Etihad Airways’ reusable Economy Class tableware designed by deSter was recognised with a Red Dot in the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2025.
Developed in close collaboration with Etihad Airways, the tableware was created to offer a more premium in-flight dining experience while supporting ambitious sustainability goals. The set features a sleek, modern aesthetic and refined textures that elevate the guest experience in Economy Class—without compromising on durability or function.
Made from recycled high-quality plastic, the tableware includes a tray, casserole dish, side bowls, lids and platter—all part of a closed-loop recycling system. After use on board, items are collected, washed and brought back to the aircraft to be re-used. When they reach end-of-life, the pieces are collected, washed, ground down, and remanufactured, ensuring zero waste and full circularity. The set is complemented by premium stainless-steel cutlery, biodegradable paper cups, wooden stirrers and pressed paperboard alternatives, replacing all single-use plastic onboard.
“This award is a fantastic recognition of how good design can truly transform everyday travel moments,” said Nicholas De Nijs, Regional Vice President Middle East at deSter. “We’re proud to have partnered with Etihad on a product that delivers both visual elegance and environmental responsibility—bringing a sense of refinement to Economy Class dining.”
Zulkiflie Jumaat, Senior Manager Guest Experience & Product Development at Etihad Airways, added: “This tableware is more than just functional—it’s a statement of our commitment to design and innovation. The look and feel mirror the Etihad brand, and thanks to deSter’s expertise, we’ve created something that looks premium, performs exceptionally, and contributes to a more sustainable operation.”
The award-winning design supports Etihad’s pledge to remove 80% of single-use plastics from its operations, a goal the airline has exceeded with more than thirty million pieces eliminated annually since the tableware’s introduction in 2022.
Media Inquiries
deSter Communications Team
dester.communications@gategroup.com
About deSter
deSter, a gategroup member, is a leading provider of innovative and sustainable food packaging and serviceware concepts to the aviation, hospitality and foodservice industries. The company combines 75 years of manufacturing expertise with the latest developments in product design. deSter has production units in Hoogstraten (BE), Lima (US), Barcelona (SP) and Prachinburi (TH), in addition to global sales offices. www.dester.com
About Red Dot Design Award
The Red Dot Design Award looks back on almost 70 years of history: in 1955, a jury came together for the first time to assess the best designs of the time. In the 1990s, Red Dot CEO Professor Dr. Peter Zec developed the name and brand of the award. Since then, the coveted “Red Dot” distinction has become an internationally recognised seal of outstanding design quality.
The Red Dot Award: Product Design is one of the most prestigious design competitions worldwide. It recognises products that stand out for their exceptionally high design quality, evaluated across four key principles: quality of function, seduction, use, and responsibility. In 2025, 43 design experts from 21 countries assessed entries submitted from over 60 nations.