Thomson has opened its first new “next generation” store to the public today at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Kent.
The new concept is vastly different to the standard Thomson stores; technology dominates the shop floor, there are no prices in the window, or even a window, and brochures are only available on request.
The new technology includes replacing the shop window with a two metre by three metre immersive video wall showcasing bespoke content, such as videos of the “perfect holiday” in the Maldives and weather reports from Thomson destinations.
Marketed to consumers as the “Holiday Design Store”, the operator’s new flagship store is divided into several different zones to suit the needs of different customers.
There are both large and small booths, an Advice Bar and a more informal pool area.
"It showcases the future for our retail network. Central to the concept is the designing of unique holiday experiences customers cannot find elsewhere"
There are also digital billboards and interactive maps, where customers can look at destinations and then narrow down their options to specific resorts and cruises choosing from other filters such as season, flight and type of holiday.
Customers can also check TripAdvisor reviews of the resorts they’re interested in using the touch screens.
The two other Thomson stores at Bluewater will be closing with some of the staff joining the 25-strong team manning the new store while others have moved to nearby shops.
Kathryn Ward, Director of Retail for TUI UK & Ireland said: “The opening of our first next generation store today is very exciting for the business as it showcases the future for our retail network.
“Central to the concept is the designing of unique holiday experiences customers cannot find elsewhere.
“We’re combining the knowledge and expertise of our people with a range of technology that will really bring choosing and booking a holiday to life and we’re looking forward to welcoming our first customers to the store.”
