TfL to make tracks with online shop

Transport organisation to purchase e-commerce platform

TfL is making a move into online retail

Transport for London (TfL) is to compete in the online retail sector with the planned purchase of a new e-commerce and content management system.

The organisation, which manages public transport and the road network in London, wants to build an outlet for selling TfL-branded gifts and souvenirs.

The online shop will run on a Microsoft .Net content management and e-commerce system to support multiple shop front-ends, said TfL.

It will also be integrated into the London Transport Museum’s online shop and TfL’s web site.

‘We are working closely with the London Transport Museum to ensure access to both sites is seamless,’ said a TfL spokeswoman. ‘The goal is to create a department store feel for the new online store.’

RSS feeds will allow products to be advertised to people browsing the main TfL web site.

The online platform, which includes a centralised management system, will integrate with back-office systems of business partners to fulfil orders, replenish stock and manage payments.