Ticketer, the UK bus and coach industry’s leading provider of real-time information, fleet management and smart ticketing solutions, is proud to announce the successful upgrade of Blackpool Transport’s bus fleet to their latest next generation TK300 ETM model.
This rollout of 110 new machines across the fleet represents the next chapter in Blackpool Transport and Ticketer’s longstanding partnership, underpinning their ongoing shared ambition of providing efficient, accessible and attractive services for both Blackpool’s residents and 16million+ annual visitors.
Enhancing the Passenger Experience
The next generation TK300 is Ticketer’s latest ETM model and builds on the strengths of its predecessor with enhanced features and functionality.
With an 8” Android tablet for the updated driver console, new card reader which accepts all major payment types including Amex, plus fast boot-up and speedy payment processing reducing dwell times, Blackpool Transport’s passengers and drivers alike can benefit from the improved usability.
“We are delighted to see Blackpool Transport upgrade to our latest ticket machines,” says Adam Toone, Ticketer Chief Commercial and Operations Officer. “This rollout kicks off the next chapter in what’s been a longstanding, innovative partnership and we’re excited to see the positive impact that it will have for both their services and passengers.”
James Clough, Blackpool Transport Finance and Commercial Director, says: “The introduction of the latest Ticketer machines is part of our ongoing digital strategy to invest in our technology for the benefit of our colleagues and customers. We’re looking forward to benefitting from the enhanced features to increase productivity for our drivers and provide a better user experience, whilst maintaining a streamlined boarding experience for our customers”.
A Scalable Solution Designed for the Future
As ever, the Ticketer’s latest ticket machine has been designed with future-proofed advancements in mind. Ticketer will launch a new voice solution later this year that will facilitate two-way communication between controllers and drivers, available only on the latest TK300 model via its driver console, microphone and speakers.
Adam continues: “Many of our customers have upgraded and are benefiting from the TK300’s existing enhanced capabilities. Looking ahead, those on our latest ETM can also soon choose to enable our upcoming voice messaging solution’s powerful features. It will not only facilitate more targeted, two-way communication between controllers and drivers, but also combat challenges many operators currently using traditional radio systems face; namely hardware and running costs, short frequency range and interference. It’s set to be a game changer for how our customers communicate.”
For further information please contact:
Mercedes Llewellyn
mercedes.llewellyn@ticketer.co.uk