Thule Shopping Experience Ventures into Self-Service

PORTSMOUTH, RI – October 12, 2007 – Thule Inc., the Swedish car rack manufacturer, chose Self-Service Networks, the leading provider of turnkey self-service solutions, to create TIPP—a solution that revolutionizes the Thule shopping experience.

TIPP (Thule Interactive Point-of-Purchase), a self-service, touch-screen kiosk, empowers consumers to quickly match the appropriate Thule rack system to their vehicle and gear carrying needs. Thule Inc. VP Marketing TJ Hanson states, “TIPP increases consumer satisfaction by providing a fast and easy-to-use interactive experience that’s true to the Thule brand.”

Hanson continues, “We are extremely pleased with the solution Self-Service Networks has developed. Their consultative and creative approach has delivered a multifunctional kiosk that meets the requirements of our diverse retail partners—specifically regarding footprint size and price point.”

Self-Service Networks designed TIPP as a stand-alone kiosk or as an upgrade to Thule’s Rack Patrol point-of-purchase display. Along with rack-vehicle matching tools, the TIPP system features product information and video demonstrations. After selecting a rack system, the selected components can be printed as a shopping list for an efficient sales process.

But TIPP is not just for shoppers. Sales associates can use it as a Thule product training tool while better serving customers. Additionally TIPP gathers usage statistics which can improve other aspects of the Thule shopping experience. “TIPP provides unique insight into the products our customers are interested in,” Hanson says, “even if they do not make an immediate purchase.”

Thule Inc. Director of National Account Sales Schuyler Horton believes, “TIPP has been extremely well received by our retail partners and the live-store pilot is producing excellent results. We are looking forward to deploying the solution to additional retail locations throughout 2008.”

The TIPP Rack Patrol point-of-purchase system will be showcased at Self-Service Networks’ booth (#615) during the KioskCom Self Service Expo, from October 23rd through October 24th, at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City.


Self-Service Networks is the leading provider of turnkey self-service kiosk solutions that drive consumer adoption. Since 1996, they have helped a diverse range of companies improve overall performance and profitability by delivering rich customer-interaction experiences through their trademark phrase Empower Your Customers™. Their expertise includes retail, banking, bill payment, healthcare, government and human resources. Their clients include: Thule, PepsiCo Inc., International Bank of Commerce, City of Atlanta, The Washington Redskins, among many others. To learn more call 888.666.8346 or visit www.self-servicenetworks.com.