Ntl signs first tour operator to broadband

Cosmos has taken the plunge and opted for a broadband internet connection for its 20 UK sites including Avro sites. Cosmos has chosen ntl business (travel division) to supply the broadband service. Cosmos and Avro are the first tour operators to install the Broadband Travel Network. Ntl says the high speed internet connection, which they claim is up to five times faster than a standard ADSL service, will increase security and cut costs for the operators. Cosmos group IT director, Alister Beveridge told TravelMole: “This will probably represent about a 20% reduction in cost for us.” He said this is partly because Cosmos is going with one network provider so it is the power of bulk buying. He added: “Using ntl’s private network, so that we don’t have to use a public one, which is very important to us.” Mr Beveridge said that five sites have been connected so far, with about 15 to go over the course of the next eight weeks. This will cover remote offices, Cosmos’ head office in Bromley, airport sites and call centres. Ntl business (travel division) marketing director Jill Cox said: “The technology is increasingly becoming the industry standard and is critical for the survival of tour operators and agents in such a competitive market where customers demand excellent service.” Report by Ginny McGrath