# Engaging Commute Interactive subway ads reflect a need for more integrated marketing tactics. By [Tana Makmanee](https://www.trendhunter.com/tmak), SVP, Research Services at Trend Hunter | Published Mar 18, 2014, updated Apr 1, 2014 | Category: [Marketing](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/marketing-strategy) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/engaging-commute ## Key Figures - Trend score: 4.3/10 - Evidence articles: 6 ## What is the Engaging Commute trend? **Engaging Commute:** While brands often seek out more open and exposed forms of product placement, blatant ad campaigns are often ignored by consumers too busy to pay attention. Seeking to catch consumer interest through more habitual day-to-day techniques, brands are turning to interactive marketing tactics such as immersive subway stunts to engage individuals on a more approachable level. Turning average commuter settings into engaging campaigns allows brands to connect with individuals in a setting that feels more convenient than intrusive. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 6 featured examples - Articles from: Jan 11, 2012 to Feb 6, 2014 - Published: Mar 18, 2014 - Patterns: [Convergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/convergence), [Redirection](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/redirection) - Megatrends: [Multisensation](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/multisensation), [Experience](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/experience), [Authenticity](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/authenticity) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Engaging Commute trend ### Interactive Subway Ads Brands are turning to interactive marketing tactics such as immersive subway stunts to engage individuals on a more approachable level. ### Immersive Subway Stunts Brands are turning to immersive subway stunts to connect with individuals in a setting that feels more convenient than intrusive. ### Subway-Based Promotions Companies are using the subway and its surroundings to promote their products and services in a new and innovative way. ## What the Engaging Commute trend means for industry ### For Marketing The rise of interactive marketing tactics and immersive stunts is transforming the face of marketing. ### For Retail The subway is increasingly being used to reach new audiences and promote innovative products and services. ### For Transportation The subway is being turned into a place of exploration and excitement, highlighting the potential for innovative experiences in transportation. ## Trend signals for Engaging Commute Trend score 4.3 out of 10, from popularity 75%, activity 46%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 75% - Activity: 46% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Engaging Commute trend 6 featured examples from Jan 11, 2012 to Feb 6, 2014. - [Subway Car Grocery Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/subway-grocery-store): This Subway Grocery Store Lets Commuters Shop While They Travel (Category: Business) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrating technology and mobile platforms to revolutionize the grocery retail industry, making shopping more convenient and accessible. - [Subway Tunnel Housing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-apartment-by-ikea): 'The Apartment' by IKEA is Located in a Parisian Metro (Category: Marketing) Implication: The furniture industry can capitalize on the trend of subway tunnel housing by offering space-saving and multifunctional furniture pieces. - [Edible Purse Commercials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/model-eats-designer-bag): The ICC 'Model Eats Designer Bag' Commercial is Hilarious (Category: Marketing) Implication: Opportunity for culinary schools and pastry programs to explore innovative and attention-grabbing ways to promote their courses, such as creating edible versions of popular object… - [Sly Subway Station Menus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mcdonald-s-train-timetable): McDonald's Train Timetable Stunt is a Hit in Poland (Category: Marketing) Implication: Incorporating visually appealing and integrated menus presents opportunities for fast food chains to increase customer base and sales. - [Jet-Setting Subway Stunts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fastline): The Fastweb Fastline Campaign Brought Italians to Tokyo in Seconds (Category: Marketing) Implication: The telecommunications industry can explore disruptive innovation by creating unique and immersive experiences to showcase their services. - [Workout-Encouraging Subway Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/exercise-machine): This Exercise Machine Trades Squats for Subway Fares (Category: Marketing) Implication: Manufacturers of fitness equipment can partner with transit authorities to provide interactive equipment and promote healthy living to commuters. ## Recent trend clusters - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) - [Source Signatures](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/oak-finish-whiskey) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Marketing - [Mystery Packaging Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cow-not-laughing) - [Creator-Led Learning Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/learning-series) - [Nostalgic Beauty Mascots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bliss-girl-series) - [Athlete Beauty Ambassadorships](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/athlete-beauty-ambassadorships) All articles: [Marketing](https://www.trendhunter.com/marketing)