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TUI AG launches mobile phone business
TUI AG travel agents are being asked to help promote its new mobile phone business, being launched next month.
The Germany-based travel giant, parent of TUI UK and Ireland, has set up a mobile phone business to help holidaymakers make calls and use the internet overseas.
A spokesman said after a ‘successful launch in Germany’ TUI would look at expanding into other source markets, such as the UK.
"This will, however, not happen in the short term," he said.
Called TUI Connect, the business will be promoted through all TUI distribution channels, including TUIfly aircraft, incoming agencies and TUI websites.
TUI chief operating officer Sebastian Ebel said: "With TUI Connect, we are aiming to offer our customers additional services that are also available at their holiday destinations, considerably reduce the associated costs and make them predictable.
"At the same time, we are seeking to tap new turnover sources for TUI. The new mobile phone services will not only contribute to our strategy of differentiation but also expand TUI’s premium brand promise so as to include our customers’ communications requirements."
Using the slogan ‘Always connected with a smile’, TUI Connect uses the mobile network provided by Telefonica Deutschland.
Customers can choose from a fixed-term contract or opt for a prepaid service.
TUI Connect MD Kai Czeschlik said: "Mobile communications has become a crucial component of the travel experience. International roaming costs are perceived as a major element of uncertainty by our customers.
"TUI Connect will open up the opportunity for holidaymakers to use their tablets and smartphones abroad just as they would do at home. We also offer digital travel services related to the location concerned abroad."
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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