| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 07/08/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 6 |
| Copyright: Other |
Major players contracted to TV Travel Shop
Operators sign up to latest TVchannel launch
Report by LEEWINTER
THOMSON, Cosmos and JMC have all signed three to five-year contracts to have their products shown exclusively on TV Travel Shop’s second channel, which was launched last week.Called TV Travel Shop2, the service is broadcast 24 hours a day on SkyDigital and cable networks. Each operator has eight hours of scheduling daily, in slots of two hours.
TVTravel Shop group managing director Tony Wheble predicted an initial audience of four million people for the new venture, rising to five million by the end of next year.
He denied the launch of TVTravel Shop2 would dilute sales.
“We have so much content that we had to boost shelf space,” he said.
“In the same way an agency might put up an extension, we’ve done the TV equivalent by launching a new channel.”
Wheble said the average value holiday currently being sold on the first channel is just below £2,000.
“Operators have been happy to collaborate with us on the second platform due to the success of the first channel.”
Viewers who want to make a booking call a local-rate number to connect to TV Travel Shop’s Bromley call centre.
There are also plans to introduce interactive booking later this autumn for both channels, enabling viewers to use their remote controls to book flights and car hire.
Meanwhile, Wheble said he has had a positive response from upmarket operators about signing up to TV Travel Shop’s third channel, due to launch next year, which will focus on cruise, short breaks and adventure holidays.
On screen: new channel will target the package market