SATS introduces innovation centre to spearhead productivity efforts

SATS has launched a new technology innovation centre, TechnIC@SATS, which will roll out technological solutions for the group's business units to boost productivity.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, the Economic Development Board and SATS have committed to invest S$110 million towards the endeavour.

While not a physical centre per se, TechnIC@SATS, will spearhead the efforts to improve productivity and enhance its services.

Since 2014, ground-handler and caterer SATS has deployed robotics and automation in its operations with initiatives such as automated guided vehicles and an automated cutlery sorter.

Such efforts have helped boost operating margins from 10.2 per cent in FY14/15 to 13.3 per cent in FY16/17. In addition, it has chalked up a 7.7 per cent increase in value added per employment cost over the last three years.