Travel Technology Initiative Special Report: The number of travel retail shops could drop to about 2,000 in the UK within five years, according to predictions from industry veteran John Donnelly.
There are currently around 5,000 branches, a decline from more than 6,100 two years ago.
Speaking at the TTI’s autumn conference on the Future of Travel Distribution, the former Harvey World Travel boss said that despite the demise of the high street he firmly believed in the future of shops.
Donnelly said booking travel on the internet was not a ‘pleasurable’ experience and that people still enjoy the shopping experience.
He added that agents should bring the traveller into the shop and let them book online but with staff on hand to help them through the process.
Donnelly also revealed details of his latest travel projects with a launch in the next eight weeks.
Plans include a number of locations combining travel services with a themed coffee house called Crooners and classic car hire under one roof.
Donnelly is also looking at different ways to distribute travel such as pods offering special deals and online or call-centre booking within banks, opticians, betting shops and other retail outlets.
*See linked TTI conference story.
by Linda Fox
