Chiltern Railways - Mailine

When Chiltern Railways built their Mainline between London and Birmingham, the service provided a more relaxed and quintessentially English route to the capital. 

This however brought them into direct competition with their rival Virgin Rail. With just a fraction of the media budget, a cost-effective and highly versatile line-led campaign was created that gently knocked that most famous bearded entrepreneur. In addition to raising a few smiles among commuters, even Sir Richard saw the funny side, sending the odd goodhearted tweet himself.

This challenger brand mentality created work that was immediately recognisable, loved by all and picked up numerous industry accolades including Fresh and Cream awards for use of media, travel and leisure and copywriting.

Gold star surrounded by a laurel wreath on a black background
Gold star surrounded by a laurel wreath

Best Radio Ad

Best Campaign

Gold star surrounded by laurel branches in a badge design
Gold star with laurel wreath around it.

Best Brand Indentity

Best OOH Campaign

Chiltern Railways billboard
Colorful Birmingham Post newspaper on the left and a white sign with purple text that says "Need a lift Sir Richard?" on the right, advertising Birmingham to London travel with free Wi-Fi.
Two side-by-side advertisements from Chiltern Railways, with text about the Which? Satisfaction Survey and a blue circular button prompting to try Mainline for more information.
Chiltern Railways billboard
Large billboard on a building with the text 'Still a Virgin?' and an advertisement for children's fast nappy service from Mainline Missles.
An escalator next to a sign that reads 'APOLOGIES: Chiltern would like to apologise for the claims made on the escalator advertisement. It's all a bit much if you ask us. Rather like Virgin's fares.' There is also a tweet screenshot referencing a response to Virgin at Marylebone.
Advertisement for Chiltern Railways promoting a quick 90-minute train trip from Birmingham Moor Street to London Marylebone.
Advertisement for Chiltern Railways featuring Sir Richard, promoting space travel and Birmingham to London train service, with a call to try it today.
Advertisement for Chiltern Railways promoting affordable fares and train routes from Birmingham and London.