Research Shows Consumers Want Greater Access to Self-Service for Add-Ons While Traveling

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Tue Mar 24, 2009 10:00am EDT

82 percent more likely to use travel companies that offer the ability to conduct
transactions online, via mobile device and at a self-service kiosk
DAYTON, Ohio--(Business Wire)--
While a challenging economy has many consumers looking for low-cost, no frills
fares, travelers also want the flexibility to perform additional transactions
through self-service channels after booking, according to a survey conducted by
Buzzback Market Research for NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR). 

Though consumers have become accustomed to checking in at a self-service kiosk
upon arrival at the airport, nearly one in three respondents indicate they`d
like the flexibility to do more at the device, such as upgrade, make seat
changes and purchase in-flight meals (28 percent). An even greater number (35
percent) would like to be able to check into their hotel or secure their car
rental. 

"Consumers have embraced the time-saving convenience of serving themselves,"
said Tania Ladic, NCR vice president, Travel Industry Marketing. "Our customers
see up to 90 percent of check-in processed through self-service. There is an
opportunity for airlines to improve customer satisfaction and drive ancillary
revenue by further accommodating passenger needs." 

The research reveals a clear connection between self-service and passenger
preference, with 82 percent of respondents indicating they are more likely to
choose a travel company that allows them to interact easily via kiosk, online
and mobile self-service channels. 

Greater use of mobility, such as the use of mobile boarding passes, is welcomed
by consumers. Thirty-three percent said they would like to receive boarding
passes on their mobile devices. Many airlines are currently piloting this
technology. 

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the use of bar
coded boarding passes is likely to impact airline operations as much as customer
loyalty. "We expect bar-coded boarding passes will deliver annual savings of
$1.5 billion to the airline industry," said IATA Bar Coded Boarding Pass (BCBP)
Project Manager Eric Leopold. IATA has set an industry objective of 100% BCBP
compliance by 2010. 

The research, published annually, was conducted between December 2008 and
January 2009. Results reflect input from 8,447 respondents in 16 countries and 6
regions. All respondents were at least 18 years of age. 

About NCR Corporation

NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR) is a global technology company and leader in
automated teller machines, self-checkouts and other self- and assisted-service
solutions, serving customers in more than 100 countries. NCR`s software,
hardware, consulting and support services help organizations in retail,
financial, travel, healthcare and other industries interact with consumers
across multiple channels. 

NCR is a trademark of NCR Corporation in the United States and other countries. 





NCR Corporation
Caroline Rose, 770-623-7608
caroline.rose@ncr.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009

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