European Travel Giant Tui Leverages AI to Enhance Customer Experience
Tui, Europe's largest travel operator, is ramping up its investment in artificial intelligence (AI) as more customers rely on chatbots like ChatGPT to book their holidays. The company aims to utilize AI to create "inspirational" videos and content that can appeal to potential travelers.
Sebastian Ebel, Tui's chief executive, highlighted the importance of staying ahead of the curve in terms of search engine optimization (SEO) and online presence. He emphasized the need for a more personalized experience, explaining that by connecting with large language models and social media companies, Tui will be able to optimize its search results and expand its customer base.
Ebel's vision includes partnering with major tech firms like ChatGPT and TikTok, where customers can access a vast array of travel options. The company has been exploring the use of AI-powered voice and chat agents for customer service, as well as utilizing the technology to improve trip planning through videos and content creation.
This investment in AI marks another significant step forward for Tui, which initially began using ChatGPT in its app last year. Despite some initial hiccups with basic conversation capabilities, the company has continued to refine its approach.
As the travel industry adapts to the growing use of AI-powered chatbots, Tui's efforts demonstrate a commitment to evolving and meeting customer demands. With annual pre-tax profits up 20% and revenue rising 4%, the company appears poised for growth in an increasingly competitive market.
However, Tui also faces challenges, including macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties that could impact its business in the coming years. To address this, the company has outlined plans to cut costs by โฌ250m by 2028, while emphasizing the need to maintain a growing workforce.
Tui's shares have faced recent pressure, but Ebel believes the market is "over the high inflation times," signaling a potential turn for the better. With popular destinations like Greece and Turkey expected to attract holiday bookings next summer, the company remains optimistic about its prospects in an industry where adaptability is key to success.
Tui, Europe's largest travel operator, is ramping up its investment in artificial intelligence (AI) as more customers rely on chatbots like ChatGPT to book their holidays. The company aims to utilize AI to create "inspirational" videos and content that can appeal to potential travelers.
Sebastian Ebel, Tui's chief executive, highlighted the importance of staying ahead of the curve in terms of search engine optimization (SEO) and online presence. He emphasized the need for a more personalized experience, explaining that by connecting with large language models and social media companies, Tui will be able to optimize its search results and expand its customer base.
Ebel's vision includes partnering with major tech firms like ChatGPT and TikTok, where customers can access a vast array of travel options. The company has been exploring the use of AI-powered voice and chat agents for customer service, as well as utilizing the technology to improve trip planning through videos and content creation.
This investment in AI marks another significant step forward for Tui, which initially began using ChatGPT in its app last year. Despite some initial hiccups with basic conversation capabilities, the company has continued to refine its approach.
As the travel industry adapts to the growing use of AI-powered chatbots, Tui's efforts demonstrate a commitment to evolving and meeting customer demands. With annual pre-tax profits up 20% and revenue rising 4%, the company appears poised for growth in an increasingly competitive market.
However, Tui also faces challenges, including macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties that could impact its business in the coming years. To address this, the company has outlined plans to cut costs by โฌ250m by 2028, while emphasizing the need to maintain a growing workforce.
Tui's shares have faced recent pressure, but Ebel believes the market is "over the high inflation times," signaling a potential turn for the better. With popular destinations like Greece and Turkey expected to attract holiday bookings next summer, the company remains optimistic about its prospects in an industry where adaptability is key to success.