(25 Jul 2016, 7:29 pm)Michael wrote Arriva have overused the MAX and Sapphire brand now, they need something new although, don't get me wrong i really like the Sapphire brand.
I really liked Open line, shame they don't do it now, i have to say i would like to see internal branding again.
Arriva's 2016 specification has seen every new and refurbished vehicle gain USB charging sockets, free WiFi, and e-leather seating as standard.
In my eyes, Sapphire and MAX have depreciated from a specification to a series of route branding.
However, the only way I can see Sapphire and MAX working now, is if all Sapphire and MAX vehicles get marketed and maintained as a luxury bus service. Sapphire should really be for those longer routes (like the 22/24 in Durham) and MAX for express/semi-express services like X21, X18 etc. Both MAX and Sapphire should have better seats than Civics, but should retain 2x2 seating configuration due to passenger loadings. These vehicles should also be deep cleaned at least once a year, as some MAX and Sapphire vehicles, especially south of the Tyne have been absolutely disgusting. Dedicated customer services and websites to make sure that the service isn't too Arriva-y as it has become in the past year. Attention to detail should also be looked at as I'm sick of seeing depots plastering older Arriva stickers on the vehicles, and yellow stickers on windows etc.
Arriva's normal specification should be Civic V3 seating with WiFi and USB charging sockets, other areas have already seen vehicles repainted and refurbished into either 2014 or 2016 spec, but why not North East, where recent fare rises have been blamed on high-spec new buses and refurbishments for certain routes?