Thomson's Shops

[Karen]

We have just booked our 2015 holiday at our local Thomson shop, which we have used for many years.  They always match the online price.  Now they have to charge a £25 booking fee for each holiday.  I suppose this is another way of reducing staff numbers!!  We book 3 holidays a year with them, so it makes sense for us now to book online.  We always like to shop in our local town, as there are already many shops closed. Talking to them yesterday (short of staff) they think they will eventually just become an advise centre.  Good old Thomsons!

[Rover]

It's not only Thomson. Sony shops have gone, and bank branches will be next. On line seems to be the future?

[Karen]

Yes you are right.  I was talking to a friend in LLoyds Bank, where I used to work and the staff have been told that they are the 'last resort' when customers come into the bank.  They expect us all to use online services, ATM's etc.  But there are still those who don't have or can't use these facilities. Hence they have cut staff.  It's the changing high street, I know, but it also costs jobs.

[Gavlah1973]

My first job was as a travel agent back in 1992. I worked for Pickfords in the first shop hit £1m !!!
To be honest I've not used one for many years. I've booked online probably for the last 9/10 years.
I don't think you need them..... Just book online with Thomson etc.
I think the only time I'd use a travel agent/specialist would be if I was going round the world and needed multiple flights and stopovers.

Shame but just the way of the world

[Karen]

Yes Gavlah, we shall be booking online from now.  Thomson already charge enough for the extras that some of us need to have!