News

C-store customers in Ariz. get '`zapped' with kiosk technology

October 13, 2004

TUCSON, Ariz. -- Twenty-three Circle K stores in Tucson offer an array of new electronic services through ZapLink public access kiosks.

The kiosks offer services such as high-speed Internet and e-mail access, bill payment with Cricket Wireless, payday loans, maps and directions, in-store coupons, local news, video postcards and Speak Your Mind. Services coming soon include Mexican tourist insurance, and pre-paid long distance and cellular phones, according to a news release.

"We are excited to offer our customers access to the latest technologies," said Doug Hecker, retail marketing manager for Circle K. "Customers have responded positively to ZapLink in the markets we have tested and we think Tucson customers will have the same reaction."

ZapLink kiosks feature bilingual directions on touchscreens. All services except Internet access, video postcards and Speak Your Mind are free.

Users can log on to the Internet for 19 cents per minute and pay with cash or credit cards directly at the kiosk, the release said. There is no need for interaction between the ZapLink user and the Circle K customer service representative, unless customers need assistance.

Future ZapLink services offered at Circle K could include bill payment to utility companies, and purchasing of tickets for entertainment and sporting events, the release said.

ZapLink technology is provided by kiosk company Info Touch Technologies Corp. See related story, "Info Touch posts strong Q3 results."

[Editor's note: Info Touch Technologies became Tio Networks in April 2006.]