Finnair in partnership with Iittala, Harri Koskinen, Schönwald and deSter have realizes the vision of the new Finnair business class and premium economy tableware, launching in May 2022.
This project was unique as deSter supported Finnair and Iittala to bring an absolute dream to the market – tableware that captures the “coming home” feeling, designed locally in Finland, whilst ensuring functionality when it comes to flying on board of an airplane.
Iittala and Harri Koskinen, who has a long-standing relationship with the tableware brand, translated Finnair’s vision into an impressive design. Schönwald, a German heritage tableware manufacturer, was chosen because of its high quality, sustainable practices with production in Europe and a long-standing relationship with deSter. Overall, material strength & durability, product quality & stackability as well as sustainability were a major focus in the whole project, helping maintain both Finnair and Iittalas’ high standards and deliver a superior concept for Finnair’s elevated long-haul experience.
“In the long-haul Business Class and the new Premium Economy class, dining is an important part of the whole, and we wanted to complement the experience with fresh Nordic design,” says Kristos Mavrostomos, who is responsible for developing the tableware in Finnair’s Inflight CX team.
“We began this Journey with Finnair and Iittala back in 2018 with the launch originally planned for March 2020. Four years and one pandemic later we’re delighted to see the result of all our hard work come to fruition. Working with multiple stakeholders, in this case the airline, partner brand, external designer and our manufacturer, always brings added complexity and flavor to any project. But this partnership worked extremely well and together we’ve delivered a concept that has been received with acclaim, exceeding many expectations”. David Newall, Business Development Director Europe.
The Kuulas range launch in May 2022 in Finnair’s new Business class and Premium Economy class and includes plates, bowls, coffee cups, tumblers, wine glasses and cutlery.
