Exclusive Routemaster magazine launches following deal secured by TSBA Group.
TfL has partnered with Hachette Partworks to create a new exclusive Routemaster magazine.
The weekly magazine – licensed through TfL’s brand licensing partner, TSBA Group – launches on January 17.
Each issue allows readers to find out more about the history of buses and transport across London since the early 1800s to now, as well as build their own 1:12 scale model of a classic Routemaster bus.
The bus, RM857, was originally built in July 1961 and is based precisely on the look of the bus when it operated along route 11 in 1966. It is now privately owned and regularly features at vintage transport events across the UK.
The magazine will be available from retailers across the UK, as well as through a dedicated website www.buildtheroutemaster.com. TfL is also working with Hachette Partworks to offer the magazine to other worldwide territories in the future.
Graeme Craig, director of commercial development at TfL, commented: “This deal is part of our wider work to bring our internationally renowned symbols that embody the heritage and identity of London – such as the Tube map and the roundel logo – to the global licensing market.
“Making the most of our brand allows us to generate funds which are then reinvested in delivering a modern and affordable transport network for the millions of people who rely on it every day.”
Tom Bath, marketing director of Hachette Partworks, added: “The Routemaster is iconic across the world and we look forward to giving people the chance to build their own special piece of London transport history.”
Stephanie Freeman, head of licensing for TSBA, continued: “This deal is the start of many new products for TfL that tell great stories and provide consumers with a friendly and informative approach to the brand.
“Hachette are one of the leading partwork licensees globally, and we are extremely happy to partner with them on this iconic project.”
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