Bus Adverts Helps Business Celebrate 50 Years

Following our posts on the Wilco advertisements appearing on the rear of some local buses, First have now issued the following press release

Richard Shortis, Richard Alger and staff from the East Anglia Transport Museum with 

the two buses

In order to help launch his new venture in 1964, Norwich businessman Kevin Shortis booked an advert of the back of a bus.

Now five decades later, the Shortis Group has again trusted the bus to promote its message after a new mega-rear advert was been created on six First Buses.

Kevin Shortis, now almost 75, is still heavily involved in the business which has 81 trading sites across the country and 600 employees, it is his son, Richard, who leads the business day-to-day in his role as managing director.

The Shortis Group, which includes Wilco Motor Spares and Fast-Fit Tyres and Exhausts, was started in Barn Road, Norwich, in 1964. Its original advert is still on the back of a bus today – a vintage 1964 AEC Reliance which is stored at East Anglia Transport Museum in Carlton Colville.

Ten years ago, the bus was saved from scrappage and restored to its former glory by a team from the museum, including First Eastern Counties’ staff manager, Richard Alger.

Richard Shortis said: “It’s lovely that we managed to get the two buses together. We have done a lot of bus advertising over the years. It’s very prominent and eye-catching – it’s a brilliant way to raise awareness.”

Buses in Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Ipswich and Leeds will carry the advert for six months.

First Eastern Counties’ General Manager, Hugo Forster, said: “For many businesses, advertising on buses is a great way to attract new customers and promote a brand. We are delighted that the Shortis group has continued to advertise with us over the years.”

Source: First Eastern Counties Press Release - 23rd April 2014