Virgin Trains have done some research which has revealed trainspotting as the last emerging hipster trend. It comes after huge amounts of people declare their love for trains online.
Theres barely a year to go until Virgin launch their Azuma high speed trains. The new trains are sparks of conversation on Social Media.
Over on popular photo app Instagram. #TrainPorn and #train_nerds have seen an increase in posts of around 200% between 2016 and 2017.
Whilst over on UkRailScene, posts increased by 615 per cent for the same period, with 76 per cent of these posts made by the under 35s.
Virgin Trains worked with subculture expert and author of Style Tribes,Caroline Young. To identify the top next-generation train lovers taking over social media.
The top next generation train fans, as identified by Caroline Young, are:
- @AllTheStations
- @kings_transports
- @version3point1
- @cpsedmonds
Virgin Azuma’s will arrive in the East Coast from December 2018. They will make getting up and down the country more comfortable and quicker. London to Edinburgh will take 4 hours and London to Leeds in just 2 hours. The new trains will come with WiFi and power sockets and also superior catering. More leg room and seats will also feature.
What did the officials say?
Caroline said “This new type of train fan is an avid social media user who seeks unique adventures and experiences that will help them connect with, and impress, thousands of other users. Not only is there a certain ‘geek chic’ attached to the concept of trainspotting, but the journey becomes part of the travel experience as people enjoy the chance to observe scenery, read, listen to music, and even write. Technology is key to their lives, and we know they’re snapping and sharing their real-life experiences more than ever before.
“The new Azuma fleet will be giving this new wave of trainspotter something they’ve been excited to see for years – a totally revolutionised fleet of trains equipped with the perfect mix of speed, advanced technology and sleek design that we know the modern rail fan craves.”
Vicki (All The Stations) said “We’ve loved the response to our videos, which have now reached more than six million views, as it really shows that there is a growing interest in railways and train travel, and many are younger enthusiasts who, like us, are keen to have an adventure and explore the country by rail.”
Aileen Jordan, Director of Azuma at Virgin Trains on the east coast, said: “We’re really excited to see trainspotting transcend generations and become as popular amongst hipsters as it is with regular fans. Azuma has been sparking conversations on social media since we unveiled the train last year, and we’re delighted it is inspiring a younger train enthusiast. We’re looking forward to exciting even more fans when our trains hit the tracks in a barely a year’s time, and move us into the next era of high-speed passenger train travel.”
- Visit the Virgin Trains Website
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