Thomas Cook has opened its sixth concept store at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent.
The travel company launched the concept stores, which offer modern high-tech features, in Leeds in December 2012, followed by openings in Stockton-on-Tees, Edinburgh, Bristol and Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex.
Managing Director of the Thomas Cook and The Co-operative retail network, Joanna Wild, said: “We know how precious an annual holiday is and, like all our Concept Stores, Thomas Cook in Bluewater is set to both inspire and make the holiday purchase as enjoyable and easy as possible for our customers.”
The new store will showcase the experience that combines customers making their own travel arrangements in a new environment, through new technology, with the expertise of a more traditional travel agent.
Unique features include an ‘Advice Bar App’, which has been developed exclusively for Thomas Cook by Microsoft partner Infusion. The App, which will only be available to use in the store, includes features that will enable visitors to research their holiday in whichever way they choose, searching for deals by price, departure time or gateway or seek inspiration about a destination or type of holiday.
There is also a separate area for group bookings with a large touch-screen and internet access that allows everyone in the party to participate in the booking process. This space can also cater for private consultations for special holidays such as weddings and honeymoons, illustrating the value Thomas Cook places on its relationships with customers.
The Bluewater store will also include a dedicated kid’s area supported by Disney, with tablets and games available to keep children entertained.