As the aviation industry increasingly prioritizes sustainability, Plaza Premium Group (PPG) is aligning its global operations with this new reality. PPG addresses environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges through a practical, people-first approach across its operations in over 600 airports globally. Its strategies range from cutting kitchen waste at scale to removing travel barriers for passengers with mobility challenges. Ultimately, this is how the Group fulfills its mission to make travel better for both passengers and the planet.
Airport business is a people business. From management to employees, airport communities to passengers, the “People First” culture shapes how the Group designs airport experiences, ensuring accessibility, comfort, and care for a diverse global traveller base while empowering teams to deliver with purpose. People First anchors PPG’s sustainability strategy, alongside Responsible Business, Net-Zero Future, Social Impact, and Better Together. Across a global workforce of more than 7,000 employees representing over 80 nationalities, with 48% female representation, PPG actively champions diversity and inclusion. PPG also invests in training, development, and supportive environments where people can thrive, reflecting its belief that empowered teams create better experiences.
PPG champions inclusive travel through ALLWAYS, its airport passenger services brand. Through mobility assistance and meet-and-assist services, removing barriers for passengers of all ages and abilities. This commitment is reinforced by its role as International Air Transport Association (IATA’s) Strategic Partner in Accessibility, as well as collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to equip teams with specialised training for passengers with invisible disabilities. PPG is also piloting autonomous wheelchairs to further enhance accessibility throughout the passenger journey.
On the environmental front, PPG prioritises waste reduction, sustainable procurement, and responsible operations, while also leveraging technology to drive greater impact. It has recently partnered with Winnow, a pioneer in AI-powered food waste management, to support a more data-driven approach to reducing waste and improving kitchen efficiency. Through a pilot programme at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, where we operate three lounges and three dining outlets, we achieved a 10-tonne reduction in food waste in just six months, which is equivalent to 25,000 meals and 43 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. In addition, PPG adopts a regenerative approach by repurposing mushroom and broccoli trimmings into soup, while bread trimmings are transformed into breadcrumbs.
The future of sustainability depends on collaboration across the aviation ecosystem. At PPG, we work closely with airport operators, airlines, and concessionaires to align on shared sustainability goals and co-create value. This collaborative approach enables us to deliver more integrated, efficient, and future-ready experiences for passengers. Equally important is our role in supporting broader global priorities. Through our initiatives and partnerships, we contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that business growth is aligned with social and environmental responsibility.
Author: Suresh Kumar
Chief Operating Officer, Plaza Premium Group
*Find out more about Plaza Premium Lounge Management's engagement in the IATA's Strategic Partnerships Program on the partners directory.
