Boyfriends Can Definitely Relate to Krow's New Virgin Trains Campaign

Virgin Trains today announces that it is launching a combined integrated campaign – the first time the two rail franchises have worked together in this way.

With a vision to become one of the UK’s best loved brands the campaign intends to be bigger, bolder and braver than ever before, whilst retaining the wit and humour of the Virgin brand. Using the creative strapline, “Be Bound for Glory”, the campaign builds on the insight that long-distance travel is usually for something important — whether that’s a big business meeting or meeting the in-laws for the first time – so Virgin Trains will help customers arrive prepared to tackle whatever life may throw their way. The campaign also builds on and reinforces Virgin Trains as leaders in customer experience.

Katie Knowles, Marketing Director of Virgin Trains on the West Coast, said: “This campaign is fundamentally about how our amazing Virgin Trains experience enables our customers to be ready to take on the world. We know people travel long distances for important things, so we want to show people really ‘nailing it’ when they arrive. “Be Bound for Glory”, which is a big, bold statement that only Virgin Trains could make, does just this.”

Danny Gonzalez, Marketing and Sales Director of Virgin Trains on the East Coast, said: “Whilst we’re technically two separate businesses, we are all part of the Virgin family. By combining under one masterbrand for this campaign we want to show that, whichever line you travel on, you will still receive the same customer service, comfort and speed for which Virgin is renowned, and wherever your destination, we’ll get you there ready to take on the world.”

The campaign will launch over the weekend of the September 19, kicking off with a 60 second spot on Saturday during The X Factor, and a 90 second spot on Sunday within Downton Abbey. It will then run in this format and as a 30” ad until November 15. The ad, created by krow, tells the story of a young man who is meeting his girlfriend’s family for the first time. Because he travelled there on a Virgin Train, he feels at his absolute best, ready to win them over. 

The TVC will be amplified by print and outdoor, including a take-over of Waterloo’s IMAX between September 21 and October 4 that utilises Ocean Media’s first dynamic lighting technology, and a domination at London’s Holland Park roundabout. 

TMW Unlimited has created the digital display for the campaign, using dynamic fare information to segment and target potential travellers based on location and profile. TMW Unlimited is also creating content for Virgin Trains’ social channels including The Virgin Trains Name Game, with lucky winners being rewarded with First Class travel. After launch TMW Unlimited will also be creating an online film, which tells the story of how Virgin Trains helps a budding best man ‘Be Bound For Glory’. 

Manning Gottlieb OMD’s media planning uses high impact channels including OOH landmarks sites such as the IMAX and M8 banner in Glasgow, plus standout print formats. This is supported by evolved AV planning, combining postcode-targeted Sky AdSmart, VOD, Cinema and terrestrial TV, as well as strong radio and digital activity. Check out the radio ads, Lawrence, Alice, Bridget and Terrence.

The full agency team consists of krow, TMW Unlimited, Manning Gottlieb OMD, Lowe Profero, Amaze and Hope & Glory.