TUI Travel has released details of its "next generation" shop as it reports interim results for the six months ending 31 March 2013.
The Thomson and First Choice parent says the first Thomson shop will open in late summer, at an as yet undisclosed destination, with a further 10 shops to be refitted by Christmas and 100 in the next few years.
The company says it continues to drive online sales for all businesses while describing its offline business 'as profitable but shrinking (and) 'an essential distribution channel while markets switch to online'.
Key features of the shops:
- giant video walls at the shop front displaying holiday videos and other imagery
- interactive maps at the entrance as well as interactive tables enabling consumers to research their plans
- an advice bar for consumers to surf the Thomson and First Choice websites from laptops and consult with agents
- booth areas displaying video/images of a chosen destination for a more personal approach
- free wifi for consumers to use their own devices in-store
In today's results presentation the company says the strategy is to accelerate the shift towards online channels and provide customers with more ways to interact with it.
While its 700 shops provide brand visibility and support those wanting to research online but book offline, the company recognises the lower distribution costs of online as well as the increasing demand.
It is not the only travel brand to go hi-tech with its outlets as Manchester threw as much tech as possible at its Apple-style Visitor Information Centre last year and Thomas Cook opened its own 'travel agency of the future' concept in Leeds at Christmas.
TUI Travel is reporting a £43 million reduction in operating loss to £274 million for the six month period with revenue in the UK and Nordic region increasing by 5% and 10% respectively.
In a video clip discussing the results TUI boss Peter Long highlights how he believes the company is now 'leading the way and setting the agenda' versus Expedia which he says, is now pushing package holidays:
"This is an online travel company following what a traditional company has done."
The company has also enhanced its MyThomson mobile application which it says will act as a 'blueprint' for its other brands. The app provides consumers with information on flights, maps and getting to the airport details, hotel and destination information including a 'must see' list, weather updates and social media links.