Reading Buses has taken its partnership with Reading FC to another level.
The partners have unveiled a Reading FC branded bus which will not only promote news of the partnership, but includes Reading Buses being recognised as an official travel partner.
As the bus travels around many of the routes throughout town, customers will see that it features a number of Royals stars as well as manager Jaap Stam.
Said Martin Gilbert, Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer: “Announcement of the branded bus also marks great news for concessionary pass holders that the special £1 each way fare will be extended into the new season.
“That means anybody holding an older person’s concessionary pass can travel to and from the stadium for just £1 on match days.
“We are delighted to provide not only this branded bus, but buses in general to help fans get to and from home games.
“At the same time,” Martijn added, “we are encouraging more people to take this special bus to the Madejski Stadium to support Reading FC’s push for promotion.”
Reading Buses has already been working closely with the Royals to maintain concessionary travel to allow fans aged 65 and over to travel to Madejski Stadium on match days for free until the end of the season.
The design of the Reading FC branded bus was produced by a Royals season ticket holder and local graphic designer Ben Greenwood.
The bus made its first stop at Madejski Stadium for a photo shoot with club staff and representatives of Reading Buses. Photographed with the newly branded bus are left to right Ray Booth (Stadium Manager), Adam Benson (Commercial Director) and Tony Pettitt (Reading Buses Chief Finance and Information Officer).
Said Dara Thomas, Head of Marketing at Reading FC: “We think the bus looks incredible and we hope our fans feel the same when they see it driving around Reading . We very much value our role in the local community and it’s fantastic to be able to have increased visibility in the local area. The imagery is really powerful and hopefully it evokes a sense of pride in the team and the town.”
Adam Benson, Commercial Director, added: “We are delighted to continue to develop our relationship with Reading Buses, linking one of the town’s most established transport companies with its local football club.”
The Reading FC website says Reading Buses has been transporting customers in and around the town for more than a century and continues to offer a quality bus service, seven days a week, with a strong focus on customer service and innovation.