Defects in the Germany ticket: Consumer association calls for improvements

Defects in the Germany ticket: Consumer association calls for improvements

The Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) has identified deficiencies in the Deutschlandticket and is calling for improvements. According to vzbv boss Ramona Pop, consumers are still having problems purchasing and canceling tickets. Customers also criticize the design as a digital ticket with a subscription requirement. The Deutschlandticket was introduced 100 days ago and is intended to increase the attractiveness of local transport and contribute to climate goals. However, there are still some problems, as consumer advocates have discovered. An evaluation of feedback from more than 350 people from May to July revealed that the ordering process sometimes breaks down and that multiple tickets are unintentionally purchased when trying again. In other cases, the online ticket ordered does not appear in the corresponding app or individual consumers cannot purchase a ticket at all. Some providers require a credit check, which means that purchasing tickets is not possible for some people. In addition, customers have difficulty canceling the ticket because cancellation buttons cannot be found or work and customer service is difficult to reach. Many customers would like more flexible deadlines for ordering and canceling, as well as the option of being able to purchase the ticket without a smartphone or with an older device.

According to a report from www.merkur.de

These deficiencies in the Deutschlandticket can have a significant impact on the market and consumers. Firstly, consumers' confidence in the product and public transport in general could be affected if they are faced with problems and obstacles when purchasing and using the ticket. This could lead to a decline in ticket sales and less transit use, which in turn could impact transit companies' revenues.

Secondly, the lack of flexible payment options and the credit checks of certain providers could mean that certain customer groups, such as people without a bank account or with a previous personal bankruptcy, are excluded from purchasing tickets. This could lead to unequal treatment of consumers and make it more difficult for these groups to access local transport.

Thirdly, the difficulties in canceling the ticket and poor customer service could lead to frustration and dissatisfaction among customers. This could result in customers not purchasing the ticket again or avoiding public transport if they do not receive assistance when problems arise.

In order to minimize these effects and make the Deutschlandticket more attractive, providers should listen to consumer feedback and correct the deficiencies mentioned. More flexible payment methods, better accessibility of customer service and easier and more user-friendly ticket ordering and cancellation could help increase consumer satisfaction and ensure the success of the Deutschlandticket.