Thomson unveils new style travel store
Travel retailer Thomson has opened a new flagship store at Dudley’s Intu Merry Hill that features new technology such as virtual reality headsets to bring holidays to life.
The new store design has taken into account customer and staff feedback.
Digital interactive maps have now been rolled out for use by all customers at every stage of the customer journey rather than there only being one at the front of the store. The interactive and touch screen maps help customers search for and narrow down their holiday choices, showcasing in-depth information on destinations and videos of resorts and hotels.
In a first for Thomson, visitors to the new store will be able to use virtual reality headsets to enable them to have a range of ‘taster’ experiences, such as a trip onboard the TUI Discovery cruise or viewing premium seats on 787 Dreamliners.
Customers will also have the option to use dedicated self-service computers to print boarding passes, do advanced passenger information and to pay off any balances with the team of retail advisors on hand to answer questions and provide expert knowledge. Alternatively, the dedicated team in store can offer a completely personalised holiday planning service and handle the entire holiday booking process.
In addition, a new appointment reservation system is being used at the store where customers can choose an allocated time, head off to continue their shopping and return for their dedicated slot.
A specialist currency ATM stocking Euros and Dollars alongside Pounds Sterling will also be installed and allows customers to withdraw their own travel money. This will feature alongside Thomson’s travel money desk where customers can order any other currency requirements for their upcoming holidays.
Helen Caron, distribution and cruise director for TUI UK & I said: “We’re delighted to be able to offer a new and improved store to help our agents provide a state-of-the-art booking service to our customers.
“This flagship store launch underlines our commitment to retail and we are really excited to welcome people into the store to come and see what’s new and how our expert advisors can help them find their perfect holiday with the same great service and improved technology.”
