Seven figure Chiltern brief goes to Connect

Connect Group has been appointed by Chiltern Railways to handle its seven figure marketing communications account.

The three year deal was won following a four-way pitch, which included the incumbent agency, and will see Connect handling all advertising and design services across all of Chiltern’s routes between London and the West Midlands – including the all important Bucks and Oxfordshire commuter markets. Media will be handled by Brilliant Media who worked with Connect on the pitch.

Connect won the opportunity to pitch following its successful work this year with sister company Wrexham & Shropshire railway.

Marketing director, Thomas Ableman said: “Connect really impressed us with the way they had got to know our market. Their approach was highly insightful and really struck a chord with us - we’re pleased to be working even more closely with the team going forward.”

Antony Green, Connect’s client services director, said the win was a huge boost for the 100-strong agency: “Our pitch was heavily based upon consumer research and focus groups within the Home Counties and the Midlands. This pointed to a very clear opportunity for Chiltern, given its strong commitment to customer satisfaction and the way rail users currently feel about taking the train. We really enjoy working with the company on the Wrexham & Shropshire account and now we’re relishing the opportunity to work in partnership with Thomas and his team even further on Chiltern Railways.”

Connect Group’s clients include Jaguar Land Rover, Sealine, Goodyear Dunlop, Amtico, WD-40, Tarmac, Baxi, Uni-ball and Volkswagen.

Chiltern Railways operates passenger rail services between London and Birmingham, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire and has built a one third market share of the London – Birmingham market from nothing by offering a passenger-focused, innovative approach including being the first train company in the country to offer tickets by text message.