ANA and The Pokémon Company to Launch Three New Pokémon Jets in 2026

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 28, 2026

All Nippon Airways (ANA) has teamed up once again with The Pokémon Company to introduce three brand-new Pokémon Jets in 2026. The move celebrates the 30th anniversary of the globally loved Pokémon brand and continues a partnership that has been running for nearly three decades.

The collaboration first took flight in 1998 with the launch of the world’s first Pokémon Jet. Since then, ANA has steadily expanded the concept through its Pokémon Air Adventures project, which focuses on bringing people and communities closer through travel. At present, ANA operates the “Pikachu Jet NH” and “Eevee Jet NH,” and with the upcoming additions, a total of eight aircraft will have featured special Pokémon-themed liveries.

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The three new aircrafts will be rolled out one after another throughout 2026, giving fans and passengers something new to look forward to across the year.

“This project goes beyond just a livery; it’s about creating an immersive world that sparks imagination, inspires curiosity and brings the joy of discovery to our passengers throughout their journey,” said Keiji Omae, Executive Vice President of Customer Experience at ANA. “Whether you first began your journey on a Game Boy screen decades ago, or are currently exploring new regions through your mobile apps, we invite you to take your next 'adventure' into the real world with ANA. Many of our passengers flying with us today were the kids who marveled at our first Pokémon Jet in 1998. We are honored to be the wings that carry not just passengers, but also their cherished memories and future adventures.”

A Dual Celebration: Pokémon’s 30th and ANA’s 40th International Anniversary

The year 2026 holds special meaning for both partners. It marks 30 years since the release of Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green on Feb. 27, 1996, and also celebrates the 40th anniversary of ANA’s first international flight.

ANA sees this shared milestone as a chance to thank fans around the world while creating fresh experiences for a new generation of travellers. The collaboration is guided by a simple idea: "Experience the Excitement and Fun of the Journey with Pokémon."

Aircraft Overview and Design

The three newly commissioned Pokémon Jets take inspiration from the original Pokémon Red, Green and Blue games. Each aircraft will play a part in a larger, connected story through its design.

・Pokémon Jet Red (Boeing 787-8): Scheduled Service: Domestic Routes
・Pokémon Jet Green (Boeing 787-9): Scheduled Service: International Routes
・Pokémon Jet Blue (Boeing 737-800): Scheduled Service: Domestic Routes

While each jet will carry its own theme, the designs are meant to come together as one cohesive narrative linked to the classic games. ANA has confirmed that detailed livery visuals and exact launch dates will be shared in May.

Beyond the aircraft designs, the project will also feature special campaigns aimed at letting passengers fully step into the combined world of ANA and Pokémon. Further updates will be made available on the ANA website.

With the return of the Pokémon Jets, the ANA Group says it will continue its mission of being “wings of the heart,” connecting people across the globe while sharing the joy and excitement of travel.


Atmosphere Core Promotes Christopher Baker as Vice President Operations

Atmosphere Core Promotes Christopher Baker as Vice President Operations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 9, 2026

Atmosphere Core has announced the promotion of Christopher Baker as Vice President Operations – Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts. In his new role, he will oversee operational performance and support growth across the brand’s portfolio in India, Italy, Maldives, and Nepal.

He will also focus on improving efficiencies, raising service standards, and supporting the launch of key upcoming properties. These include BORGO MONCHIERO HERITAGE by Atmosphere in Langhe Piedmont, Italy; STILLWOOD RETREAT, a Signature Atmosphere property in Coorg, India; and AARUNYA NATURE RESORT by Atmosphere in Banepa, Nepal.

With over 30 years of experience in the global hospitality industry, Christopher brings strong expertise across luxury and lifestyle resorts. He has worked in senior roles with leading brands such as Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Resorts, and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. Over the years, he has built a reputation for driving financial performance, delivering quality guest experiences, and encouraging innovation. He has also been recognised across the industry, including being named among the Top 100 Hotel General Managers in the World 2024 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards.

Sharing his thoughts, Christopher Baker said, “From city hotels to quiet island resorts, one truth has followed me everywhere, that exceptional hospitality is never accidental. It grows from clear systems, smart planning, and teams that feel confident to own their work. I’m honoured by the trust placed in me by the Atmosphere Core leadership, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the company’s growth.”

Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer of Atmosphere Core, added, “At Atmosphere Core, our strategy is centred on nurturing talent and fostering growth from within the company. We’re proud to see Christopher evolve and grow with us, and with his proven expertise in operational excellence, team development, and guest-centric service, he is well positioned for success in this new role.”

This move reflects Atmosphere Core’s focus on strengthening leadership as it continues to expand its presence across international markets.


Outletcity Metzingen Retains Top Spot as Germany’s Leading Outlet Destination

Outletcity Metzingen Retains Top Spot as Germany’s Leading Outlet Destination

By Hariharan U

Published on April 8, 2026

Reinforcing its position at the forefront of European retail, Outletcity Metzingen has once again been ranked as Germany’s leading outlet centre in the Outlet Centre Performance Report Europe 2025.

Published by ecostra in collaboration with French research institute magdus, the report highlights Metzingen’s consistent performance and growing influence across the European outlet landscape.

A major highlight this year is the recognition of Outletcity AG as Europe’s best operator for the sixth time since the study began. The operator category evaluates management professionalism, brand attractiveness, and the strength of partnerships with tenants, making it one of the most respected benchmarks in the industry.

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Speaking on the achievement, CEO Regine Schöllkopf-Pinakidis noted that the recognition reflects a continued commitment to excellence in brand management, service quality, and destination development. The strong endorsement from international partners further underlines the trust placed in Metzingen as a long-term retail hub.

On a broader European scale, Outletcity Metzingen has also secured a place among the top ten in the category of “Most Economically Successful Outlet Centre in Europe 2025.” Based on tenant feedback, this ranking positions the destination among the continent’s most impactful retail centres.

Widely recognised as Europe’s largest outlet destination, Metzingen continues to set benchmarks in destination management. Its strong portfolio of premium and luxury brands, along with the presence of the world’s largest BOSS store, enhances its appeal as a global shopping hotspot.

The latest recognition reflects a long-term strategy focused on consistent quality, a strong brand mix, and innovation across both physical and digital retail experiences. The destination’s sustained leadership in Germany is particularly notable, with no other outlet centre achieving a similar level of engagement from international brands.

This continued dominance highlights Outletcity Metzingen’s economic strength, brand appeal, and future-ready positioning in an increasingly competitive retail environment.

About AVIAREPS:

AVIAREPS is a global leader in aviation, tourism, and hospitality representation, with a presence across 76 offices in 71 countries. Founded in Germany in 1994, the company supports over 250 clients worldwide with services spanning sales, marketing, public relations, digital strategy, and business development, helping brands expand across international markets.


OZEN LIFE MAADHOO Elevates Wellness Travel with Personalised Journeys

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO Elevates Wellness Travel with Personalised Journeys

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 8, 2026

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is redefining wellness travel with a personalised and intuitive approach to well-being through its ELE|NA Elements of Nature concept. Moving beyond traditional spa experiences, the resort focuses on individuality, offering tailored wellness journeys that reflect each guest’s unique needs.

At the centre of this offering is ELE|NA Elements of Nature, where experiences are designed around specific wellness archetypes. Instead of standardised treatments, guests can choose journeys that align with their goals, whether it is restoration, balance, vitality, or transformation.

Wellness at the resort extends beyond the spa, incorporating a wide range of holistic practices. Guests can engage in sound healing sessions using handpans and Tibetan bowls, along with energy healing therapies, breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement. These experiences are designed to restore harmony between the body and mind in a natural and immersive setting.

Education also plays a key role in the experience. Through wellness and sustainability workshops, guests are encouraged to adopt conscious living practices and holistic self-care routines that can be integrated into their daily lives. These sessions aim to create a deeper connection with well-being while promoting long-term health.

The culinary experience is equally aligned with the wellness philosophy. In collaboration with the resort’s culinary team, a dedicated menu blends Ayurvedic principles with modern techniques, focusing on nourishment, sustainability, and mindful sourcing. Each dish is crafted to complement the guest’s wellness journey.

Set within serene overwater treatment rooms, guests receive personalised care from skilled therapists using products that support holistic healing. The experience is further enhanced by the resort’s INDULGENCE Plan, which seamlessly combines wellness, dining, and curated island activities into a single, stress-free journey.

Commenting on the concept, Mei P. Pun, General Manager of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, said, “Today’s discerning traveller seeks more than relaxation; they seek alignment. At OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, wellness is deeply personal. Through ELE|NA Elements of Nature’s archetype-led journeys, elemental therapies, and mindful culinary collaborations, we offer a destination where luxury and well-being exist in complete harmony, allowing our guests to reconnect with themselves in a truly meaningful way.”

With this approach, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO positions itself as a destination where wellness is not just an offering, but a way of life, combining personalised care, elemental balance, and refined island luxury.

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