Encore is showcasing its latest technology development at World Travel Market (WTM) next month, delivering entertainment tickets for Broadway, London’s West End and Las Vegas on one platform.

This unique enhancement enables partners to connect via just one API for all three destinations and integrate live content and inventory for theatre, events and attractions, including via mobiles.

In 2018, Encore’s partners have seen bookings increase by up to 100% on handheld devices using Encore’s Mobile First platform which includes a dynamic seat plan. This functionality allows clients to see and reserve tickets directly from the seat plan and is now setting the standard theatre bookings.

London’s theatreland looks to be in robust health for 2019 according to Encore with group bookings from tour operators and coach tour companies on the up. Encore saw £100k of sales in the first week for the new show, 9 to 5 The Musical, featuring Louise Redknapp and Brian Conley and the music of Dolly Parton in the story made famous by the 2007 film, which is due to be a strong groups favourite.

But the ticket specialist predicts that many group-favourite shows, museums and attractions will see major losses when the latest Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) comes into effect in May 2019. Coaches who do not reach the emissions standard will be fined £100 to £300 per day when visiting the Capital, which will effect over 90% of coaches and in particular, those older vehicles used to transport schools who are on tight budgets.

Although coach operators understand the implications and stark choices they will have to make, many attractions, museums and theatres are unaware of this impending new legislation that will affect their business. Operators will focus on other destinations whilst London suppliers may get an unpleasant surprise when this regular and valuable channel significantly reduces.

Sergio Cicalo, Encore's UK Sales Manager said: “We do not want to exclude school visits to our products, whether theatre or museums, and hope that subsidising educational groups will soften the blow of the fines on the older coaches these groups typically contract in, to meet their tight budgets. We believe in supporting education groups visiting the capital.”  Find out more at www.encore.co.uk