Changing commuter behaviours with Northern

Northern Trains
Media Strategy
Media Planning & Buying
Digital Media
Northern Trains advert on a single billboard

The Brand

Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK providing around 2,500 local and regional services every day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.

100 million passenger journeys are made on their network each year and they employ more than 7,000 people.

Northern train advertisement billboard with colorful graphic near urban street
Northern Railway billboard encouraging train travel to bypass roadworks

The Challenge

Northern Trains wanted to pull away from the sector and achieve a modal shift (moving journeys from car to train) in perception by showcasing the competitive advantages and benefits of travelling with Northern.

We were tasked to empower commuters to consider the train for their commute, and in turn, upgrade commuters to buy season tickets.

Strategy

From deep audience and contextual insight, we identified common themes and concerns for commuters.

By leaning into these frustrations, we harnessed behavioural nudges to create a campaign that flipped any concerns on their head. Rather than being an expensive upfront cost that ultimately saves money down the line, we wanted to showcase how they make life easier and are the most flexible way to travel.

To raise awareness and educate on a large scale, a multi-channel campaign was designed to maximise frequency and deliver on objectives. The campaign strategy spanned five core channels, TV, VOD, Radio, DOOH, and Digital, reaching customers at each stage in their journey.

Northern Rail advertisement bridge over busy highway with blurred traffic

Results

12m

People reached at least 12 times

£128k

Saved through media buying efficiencies

+7%

ROAS YOY (Display Ads)

“Changing old habits, or new ones before they’re fully formed, is no mean feat. Doing so required deep insight and bravery to experiment and build on what was already serving us well. The reward: racing further ahead of the industry at the campaign’s peak, +8% above industry average”.
Stuart Goulden
Marketing Manager, Northern Trains