First Great Western launches mobile ticketing application

First Great Western has today announced the launch of its new mobile ticketing service allowing customers to use their mobile phone or tablet as a ticket machine.

Developed by Masabi, the leader in transport mobile ticketing, customers can download the application to a smart phone/device and instantly purchase tickets for use with any train operator.

First Great Western Advance Purchase tickets will be displayed on the phone’s screen as an encrypted bar code to be checked by train managers or gate line staff – turning your phone into a mobile ticket machine.

Customers purchasing via the app will also be able to save 10% on First Great Western Advance Purchase journeys as part of FGW’s current online promotion.

All other tickets purchased on the app can be simply and quickly collected from any station ticket machine using the unique reference number sent to customer’s device.

Stuart McLay, Retail Channel Manager, said:

“Technology has fundamentally changed the way that we travel. Not only distances covered, but in the way we access information about services and in our ability to purchase ‘smart’ tickets while already on the move.

“As one of the UKs leading transport providers, First Great Western is committed to providing innovative solutions to keep people moving in these increasingly congested times.

“That is why we have developed our online and mobile ticketing service, ensuring we continue to put our customers first and help communities to prosper.”

The launch of the Masabi developed application allows users to buy Advance Purchase tickets wherever they are, at any time allowing them to reduce time spent at train stations queuing to buy tickets. Those not buying Advance Purchase tickets can still use the app, but will have to collect their tickets from a station.

Similar to the functionality of the website, the app also remembers previous journeys and securely stores payment information which means that users can make repeat purchases with just a few clicks, removing the need to enter log-in details each time.

Popular First Great Western routes where this service can be used include those in and out of London Paddington, Bath Spa, Bristol, Exeter, Oxford, Plymouth, Penzance, Cardiff, Swindon and Reading.