I travel to Germany regularly with my wife on EK with a QF ticket (Economy). Have done so for past 16 years and used most of the airlines.
Have been with EK last couple of trips. Each time we board, senior cabin crew member seeks us out and offers special service (priority meal, fast transit etc).I have QF Gold status. Use EK lounges also which are far better than some of the QF cafeteria? styles (perth on a typical day). Have ordered drink on QF and it has been forgotten at times.
It is the EK type of service that wins the customer, so who can be critical of them approaching customers. Must admit the only downside is the flight time (0600 Dep) and miss the SIN changeover.