Global Travel Group plans convenience store kiosks

System to go head to head with traditional high-street retailers

Global Travel Group plans convenience store kiosks

Global Travel Group plans convenience store kiosks

Report by NEALBALDWIN

GLOBAL Travel Group is to set up a network of computer kiosks to enable convenience stores and Post Offices to sell holidays direct to the public.

Founder George Begg claims the company is currently developing a high-tech terminal that will allow customers to search through an extensive range of foreign packages while popping into their local stores to do their shopping.

The system will be able to show video clips and high-resolution pictures of resorts. Customers wishing to make a booking will then be connected via a television link to one of Global’s call-centre staff.

Begg said: “This will create a real stir in the travel industry.

“In the age of e-commerce, there is no reason at all other retailers can’t look at selling travel too.

“Why does it have to be bought from a traditional travel agency?”

Global is believed to have hit on the idea after announcing it wanted 1,000 outlets across the UK within two years. It currently has 560 members but these are all traditional travel agencies.

“We are developing a very small kiosk-style space, using technology to get our information across,” explained Begg.

“Customers will put in their holiday parameters and the computer will find a match. You will be able to see a video of where you want to go and be taken right through to the booking stage.

“There will then be a video link through to one of our experts. They will be able to give specific advice and handle the booking formalities.”

Begg stressed the group would only consider high-quality outlets over a certain size. Most likely, he said, was a deal with a symbol group – independent retailers which are part of a consortium like Spar and Londis.

He added: “We are concentrating on recruiting more travel agent members first but other opportunities definitely exist.

“Convenience stores are very attractive to us – after all, retailing is all about convenience.”

Begg: move will create a real stir in the industry

Begg hopes customers will be able to pop into their local stores to buy a newspaper and book a holiday at the same time