Löwen Frankfurt Roar onto Rails: New Team-Branded U-Bahn Launches in Frankfurt
Frankfurt, Germany – Just days before the puck drops on the new season, Löwen Frankfurt has scored a major win – not on the ice, but under the city. A brand-new, fully branded U-Bahn (subway train) featuring the team’s iconic colors and imagery has officially launched, thanks to a close collaboration with the VGF (Frankfurt’s public transport company) and sponsorship from Bitburger brewery. This isn’t just a cosmetic makeover; it’s a rolling testament to the team’s deep roots in the city and a clever play for increased visibility.
A Lion on the Loose: Design Details & Inaugural Voyage
The Löwen-U-Bahn is hard to miss. Decked out in the team’s signature black, gray, and orange, the train boasts a striking lion head design. But it doesn’t stop there. The exterior also showcases dynamic motifs of Löwen Frankfurt players and a vibrant depiction of the Frankfurt skyline. Graphic artist Jan Langela is credited with the eye-catching layout, while Schreiner advertising technology brought the design to life with expert sticker application.
The inaugural run was particularly special, with Löwen player Lus Niehus taking the controls as the train’s first “driver.” It was a symbolic gesture, demonstrating the team’s commitment to being an integral part of the city’s fabric. The train’s launch is also a significant marketing win for Bitburger, whose logo prominently features on the U-Bahn, reinforcing their support for the team and the Rhein-Main region.
More Than Just a Train: A City United by Hockey
This collaboration highlights the growing trend of sports teams leveraging unique marketing opportunities to connect with fans and build brand awareness. While team-branded buses and stadium advertising are common, a fully customized U-Bahn is a truly innovative approach. It’s a mobile billboard reaching thousands of commuters daily, creating a constant visual reminder of the Löwen Frankfurt and the excitement surrounding the upcoming season.
“With the Löwen-Bahn we create a strong, visible presence of our brand in the everyday life of Frankfurter – and show: The lions are at home in the city,” said Andreas Stracke, Partner & CMO of Löwen Frankfurt. Thomas Raasch, Managing Director of VGF, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Ice hockey belongs to Frankfurt – and with the new Löwenbahn we are making a sign and enthusiasm for sports in this city together.” Uwe Schiller, Sales Manager at Bitburger, added that the Löwen-Bahn provides a “great opportunity to make our partnership visible in the heart of the Rhine-Main area.”
The Power of Place: Sports & Local Identity
The success of this initiative hinges on the strong connection between Löwen Frankfurt and the city of Frankfurt. Frankfurt has a rich history with ice hockey, and the team enjoys a passionate local fanbase. This U-Bahn isn’t just advertising a sports team; it’s celebrating a shared identity and a source of local pride. This type of localized marketing is increasingly effective, as consumers respond positively to brands that demonstrate a genuine commitment to their communities.
As the Löwen Frankfurt prepare for their season opener on September 12th, the Löwen-U-Bahn will be a constant reminder of the excitement to come, zipping through the city and carrying the spirit of the team with every ride. It’s a win for the team, a win for the city, and a brilliant example of how sports and public transport can come together to create something truly special. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of Löwen Frankfurt and other exciting developments in the world of sports and marketing.
