Catrion Catering Holding Company (CATRION), formerly known as Saudi Airlines Catering Company, has embarked on a new era of global expansion. Announced in October 2023, the rebrand reflects the company’s strategic shift to broaden its scope beyond its core aviation catering business, which still accounts for 76 percent of its revenues. By diversifying into retail, healthcare, railway, and integrated facilities management, CATRION aims to reduce reliance on aviation and target 50 percent of its revenues from non-aviation sectors.
Establishment and Development of CATRION
Founded in 1981, CATRION began as a provider of catering services to Saudia. Over the years, it evolved into one of the leading Saudi brands in catering, hospitality, and facilities support services. The company expanded rapidly, offering meals, laundry, housing management, and cleaning services to companies operating in remote areas, as well as to international airlines.
In 2008, CATRION launched the Catering and Support Services Unit, later renamed the Catering and Facilities Services Unit in 2015, to serve businesses across Saudi Arabia with comprehensive hospitality and site management solutions.
On October 4, 2023, the company unveiled its new identity—CATRION—symbolizing transformation and readiness for global growth. Shortly after, on October 12, 2023, the extraordinary general assembly officially approved the change of name to Catrion Catering Holding Company, aligning its operations with the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030.
CATRION’s Expansion and Operations
CATRION continues to maintain a dominant role in aviation catering, serving 72 million meals and catering 320,000 flights annually. It also manages 37 airport lounges across Saudi Arabia, welcoming over 2 million guests in 2022.
Beyond aviation, the company has expanded into non-aviation services, which contributed 21 percent of total revenues in 2022. These include:
- Corporate hospitality for companies and events.
- Hospitality services for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
- Catering for sporting and entertainment events.
- Laundry services and integrated facilities management.
Through this diversification, CATRION positions itself as a global player in catering and facilities services, while aligning with the opportunities created by Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects and international partnerships.
Awards and Certifications
CATRION has received multiple international certifications, reinforcing its reputation for excellence. These include:
- HACCP certification for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points.
- OHSAS certification for Occupational Health and Safety Management.
The company is among the few national firms to hold such globally recognized standards.
CATRION has also earned industry recognition, including the Excellence in Catering Quality Award in 2013, 2014, and 2016, and the Corporate Governance Award in 2017.
Conclusion
Catrion Catering Holding Company has grown from a national airline catering provider into a diversified powerhouse in catering, facilities, and hospitality services. Its rebrand in 2023 reflects an ambitious vision—expanding beyond aviation, seizing opportunities under Saudi Vision 2030, and positioning itself as a global leader. With decades of experience, strong certifications, and proven service excellence, CATRION is set to play a transformative role in shaping the future of catering and facilities services worldwide.
