The Network One m-ticket specifically for bus and Metro users in Tyne and Wear, is proving popular with customers, following its release back in May.
The long-standing and popular Network One scheme combines ticketing for travel across North East bus operators Go North East, Arriva and Stagecoach, as well as the Metro and Shields Ferry services; making travel across the county convenient and easy to understand.
Since Monday 14 May 2018, users of the multi-operator scheme have enjoyed the added advantage of purchasing an m-ticket with their mobile phone via each bus operator’s mobile ticketing app, while on-the-go, from anywhere and at any time. The result has been a spike in ticket sales and positive customer feedback, with one passenger saying: “Can you pass on my thanks for adding the Network One pass option on your app. It’s so easy to buy and use, I’m very impressed with it so far!”
This is the first time that travellers in the UK can purchase a multi-operator ticket through a mobile app, with the scheme designed to be a quick and easy ticketing option which will not only save valuable time but enable them to purchase their tickets no matter their location.
Tickets available include the Day Rover, Explorer North East and the 7 Day Anytime Travel Ticket.
Once purchased, the user must download their m-ticket to their registered device which is then shown to bus drivers and Metro staff. The bus apps also show where buses are in real time to save waiting time at the bus stop and help with journey planning, as well as to keep up to date with the latest news.
Chairman of Network One, Steve Walker added: “We’re proud to be have launched the Network One tickets on mobiles, which we believe to be the first multi-operator m-ticket in the UK. Network One has been offering tickets for travel across the bus services of all operators, Metro and Shields Ferry for almost 40 years and the ability to buy tickets on smartphones is a major step forward for public transport in Tyne and Wear.
“We’re pleased to see that initial sales and feedback have been positive and how the overall customer journey experience has been improved, which is at the heart of what we’re all trying to achieve by working together.”