British Airways has confirmed Marks & Spencer is to provide sandwiches and snacks from next year on the airline’s short-haul routes.
Starting on January 11 2017, short-haul economy passengers from Heathrow and Gatwick will have to pay for their food, although BA said prices would be competitive and in many cases cheaper than rival offerings.
On Stansted or London City flights, the M&S food will not be introduced until summer 2017, meaning passengers will still be eligible for a snack free of charge until then.
BA said the seasonally inspired M&S on-board menu ‘will feature a variety of delicious fresh sandwiches, salads, savoury nibbles and sweet treats’.
There will be a number of healthy eating, gluten-free and vegetarian options.
The airline said the M&S deal would improve quality and choice for passengers, not just in the menu on offer but also in ways to pay.
As well as using credit cards, passengers will be able to pay using their mobile phones or their Avios frequent flyer points. But cash will not be accepted.
There will be no charge for food on long-haul flights and in BA’s short-haul Club Europe cabin.
M&S created one of the most imitated adverts for its food in recent years. Despite the fact the slogan ‘This is not just food…this is M&S food’ was ditched in 2010, the campaign is still associated with the high-street store among the public.
