On September 26, 2011 Gateway Ticketing Systems’ first ever European User Group Meeting (Euro UGM) brought over 60 customers from throughout the United Kingdom and Europe together at the Chessington World of Adventures Resort Hotel. While there, current and prospective customers alike learned how they could use Gateway Ticketing Systems’ products to increase revenues and efficiency. They shared best practices and learned about some of the new and exciting features of the Galaxy system.
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Over a dozen of the attendees led or participated in presentations at the one-day Euro UGM. The event began with opening remarks and a warm welcome from UGM host Merlin Entertainments Group. Historic Scotland’s presentation about their journey with Galaxy included an impressive list of enhanced operations since going live with the product in 2008. In addition to improved customer data collection and shorter queue times, Galaxy Upsell has led to 350, 000 pounds in increased revenue through audio guides, guide books and passes at admissions
Attendees were also treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of Chessington World of Adventure and to lunch at theZafari Grill. Afterwards, the day of information exchange continued with a GTS-led presentation on what’s new and on its way in Galaxy. Nicola Hammond, Bookings & Reservations Team Leader at Warner Brothers, wrote of the GTS presentations, "Although we are in the early stages of Galaxy it was very interesting to learn about the modules and functions that will be good going forward from our initial go-live."
John Lucas, former Director of Operations at the Cincinnati Zoo, gave a presentation, Using Business Intelligence to Fuel Your Mission, on revenue generation and the Zoo’s use of Business Analytics software for a complete view of guest and member purchases. This has allowed the Zoo to target visitors with low spending or visiting habits with customized promotions and to reward regular customers for their loyal patronage and purchases.
Arena Leisure’s Finance Director, Tony Harris, said of the day: "All of the presentations were relevant and well pitched to the audience with a good balance of those companies that are on a journey (like ourselves), those that have yet to begin and the future horizon that we can aspire to. The Cincinnati Zoo experience was [particularly] an eye-opener for those of us that have a vision and it has already helped me redefine some ideas of where Arena is going."
The day was a success start from finish — not just with the information provided but also with the sense of community between customers and Gateway as confirmed by Sales Representative Alfiero Santarelli of Skidata Italy: "I heard some feedback from people who had not previously been to a Gateway event and they sensed the feeling of community."
Gateway Account Relationship Manager and Euro UGM coordinator, Mary Ghawi-Tannous, added, "I was very pleased with the overall attendance and feedback from customers! It was a huge success and I would like tothank Merlin Entertainments for hosting this special event, all those who presented, and all of the attendees." The Gateway Ticketing Systems management and employees extend their thanks to all of the attendees for their participation and look forward to next year’s European User Group conference.
About Merlin Entertainments Group and Chessington World of Adventures Resort:
Chessington World of Adventures Resort is part of The MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS GROUP, the leading name in location based, family entertainment, which has seen the most successful and dynamic growth of any company in the sector over the last five years. Europe’s number one, and the world’s second largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin has 62 attractions and 6 hotels in 12 countries, across 3 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable and rewarding experiences to its 38.5 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its managers and more than 14, 000 employees.
About Gateway Ticketing Systems, Inc.:
Gateway Ticketing Systems, Inc., is the world leader in admission control and ticketing software for the attraction, amusement, and transportation industries. Located in Boyertown, Pennsylvania, Gateway Ticketing Systems provides sales, service and support for Point of Sale and ticketing systems throughout North America and worldwide.
For more information on Gateway Ticketing Systems, visit https://www.gatewayticketing.com
