Public Internet Services install coin-operated kiosks in busy locations that give the public internet access.
There are over 130 units in use, some of them are on trial but most will remain in situ as the base for expansions within a pub chain or business sector. The company considers launderettes as ideal locations.
“We have concentrated on building one of the lowest priced kiosks in the market.” says Jane Buswell, business development manager. “We are able to place the kiosks free-of-charge, pay for the telephone line and pay for the call charges. There is absolutely no catch in this. As long the kiosks take £30 per week, they are paying for themselves.” The deal is that the host takes 20% of all takings. There is no contract or lease but hosts need to try out the kiosk for at least 6 months.
The service Kiosks should be prominently displayed to attract ‘impulsive’ users. Experience shows that if units are set on shelves or tables with seats provided, users are likely to prolong the experience and this generates more revenue. From a security angle, it is better to set the unit against a wall where it can be permanently secured Placing a pound in the coin slot gives customers ten minutes access to 100 selected websites. The computer screen gives access to e-mail, sport, mixed bag, news, web search, money, motors, travel, fun and games, shopping and info. Each subject has 12 websites that are carefully chosen to be quick to download, comprehensive, up-to-date and easily navigable. Web Search gives access to 12 search engines and has a facility to type in a specific website address if known. Porn is blocked and cannot be accessed. There is a free access “local button” and the host can choose which website they want this to be.
Some have chosen their own website, a local football team or a local newspaper The software allows a launderette owner operation to place his own website onto the screen with the purpose of being able to communicate with other branches.
Developed from an idea to bring the Internet to public houses three years ago, much research and development has gone into providing the low tech, compact and robust units ideal for a public environment 100 units The company covers a wide spread of expertise and has brought the company forward to a point where it has over 100 units in nearly 40 counties and is presently locating several units each week.
Contact:jbuswell@thepubnet.net or www.thepubnet.com
