I passed through Reading this week on the way to somewhere else so I just had to look at the bus scene there.
’Reading Transport’ is well known for its positive views on the provision of public transport and indeed has been recognised nationally by winning awards for its efforts.
Usually at the forefront of technology, there is much to see and admire.
Gas buses (more of which in a later blog) in some numbers for instance together with much new hardware in a dazzling array of liveries is a joy to behold to an simple enthusiast like me.
However what drew my attention was something certainly new to me that has appeared on 11 year old buses.
Reading Transport 809 Scania OmniDekka YN54 AFA
The branding at the rear of the between decks panel draws attention to what makes these buses ‘different’.
Generaly marketed as ‘claret spritzer’ and ‘the university shuttle’, the additional branding draws attention to the seperate lounge zone, a play zone and a study zone to which the entire upper deck is devoted.
Reading Transport 809 Scania OmniDekka YN54 AFA
Bearing in mind then that these buses are targeted at Reading’s student population.
The rear upper deck has a wood effect floor and is fitted largely with perimeter seating which can seat a dozen or so.
Forward of that, the floor is carpeted and there are seperate areas provided with brightly coloured seats both with and without tables.
I understand that the ‘Lego’ is provided by the company.
The front of the bus is fitted out with seats in a different fabric to draw attention to the fact that this a different area and to underline that, a ‘tree’ where books can be picked up from is provided.
I would imagine that if you take a book to read, then you are expected to leave another in its place.
In my view this is a superb piece of marketing that deserves to succeed.
The students of Reading I have no doubt will readily appreciate their new surroundings.
I only wish that ‘Sheffield Transport’ had thought of this in my youth !!
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