Thomson in interactive window trial

Travel company Thomson is trialling the UK travel industry’s first interactive window display at its Leicester store.

The move is the latest digital innovation by Thomson, which says that similar units will be installed at branches around the country if the trial is successful.

Passing customers can use touch-screen technology in the store window to look at a range of holiday options, but they are unable to actually book holidays via the window display. The company says the technology exists and may be installed once the popularity of the screens has been assessed.

Interest in the Leicester store has increased since the interactive window was installed, even though the travel agent industry has experienced a decline in custom.

The TUI-owned tour operator and travel agent is also relaunching its website next year as it seeks to increase the amount of business it does via direct channels.

This week, the company also made guidebook podcasts available on its site for the first time.

Earlier this year, Thomson introduced digital advertising on in-store digital screens and computer screensavers (MW June 30, 2005).