London could potentially get a third free newspaper later this year.
Network Rail has invited expressions of interest from publishers
interested in publishing a free newspaper at the ten London train
stations it manages.
The tender process stems from the same OFT decision which has
led Transport for London to invite bids for a free newspaper to be
distributed at its London Underground stations.
According to Network Rail, the winning bidder could be one
newspaper distributed at both the London Underground and railway
stations. Or the deal could end up being split between two different
publications.
The newspaper will be distributed from Monday to Friday between
3pm and 9pm using the distribution boxes installed by Associated
Newspapers for its Metro free newspaper.
Network Rail commercial property director John Pike said:
‘Network Rail is keen to look for a partner to explore the
possibilities of offering a free evening newspaper to the millions of
people who use our stations every day.
“This is a great
opportunity in rapidly growing market. Potential bidders will have
access to Britain’s biggest stations, which already play host to some
of the country’s busiest retailers. For Network Rail the benefits would
be yet another offering for passengers and an extra stream of revenue
to invest back into the railway.’
Network Rail is looking to complete the tender process by the end of June.
London already has two free daily newspapers: Metro and business title City Am.
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