Thomas Cook signs new IT contract with Capgemini

Thomas Cook Group has signed a contract with Capgemini for the “radical” modernisation of its core IT system in the UK.

Thomas Cook Group has signed a contract with Capgemini for the “radical” modernisation of its core IT system in the UK.


The Capgemini development will allow Thomas Cook UK & Ireland to replace a number of its existing IT systems by deploying new technology able to support the end-to-end management of all aspects of tour and travel management from booking through to delivery.


An updated reservation and management system will enable the company to market and distribute custom-designed and traditional package holidays via multiple channels including websites, call centres and travel agents.


The IT development programme also aims to facilitate integration with external IT systems from third party providers such as hotel groups, airlines and car hire companies.


Mark Foy, programme director at Thomas Cook Group, said: “People booking holidays need the freedom and flexibility that today’s choice of booking channels gives them, but they also appreciate the traditional values of service, security and expertise that Thomas Cook can provide. The new Capgemini developments will enable us to offer our customers the best of both worlds, marking an important new chapter in the ongoing development of the holiday industry.”


He added that there are further possibilities for collaboration between Thomas Cook Group plc and Capgemini in the future involving markets and customers in other parts of the Group including Continental Europe and the fast-growing markets for tourism in countries such as India and China.


The new partnership will drive the next phase of Thomas Cook’s Globe programme that was announced in 2006. The new project will focus on Thomas Cook Group’s activities in the UK market, its largest business segment.


The 70-strong Capgemini team from the UK, Germany and India will be based at Thomas Cook’s offices in Peterborough and at Capgemini Accelerated Development Centres in Birmingham and Manchester, UK and Mumbai, India.