Transport for Greater Manchester has kicked off the process to find a brand to become the first-ever sponsor of the region’s new Cycle Hire Scheme.
The scheme forms an important part of the Bee Network – Greater Manchester’s vision for an integrated London-style transport system and will play an important role in achieving Greater Manchester’s commitment to be carbon-neutral by 2038.
Soft launched by Mayor Andy Burnham in November 2021, the scheme will be second in size only to London’s, with 1,500 bikes -- including 300 e-bikes -- enabling members of the public to hire bicycles for journeys from fixed cycle hire stations across Manchester, Salford and Trafford.
TfGM is now making the opportunity available for a brand to sponsor the scheme and is looking for a partner that shares its values and has a passion for community, sustainability, diversity - and importantly the enthusiasm and commitment to getting even more people pedalling across Greater Manchester. This opportunity would see a commercial partner playing a key role in the growth of the scheme and gaining unprecedented exposure across the conurbation.
Transport sponsorship specialist PHAR Partnerships has been appointed by TfGM to lead the process to secure a sponsor for the scheme.
Andy Burnham, Mayor for Greater Manchester, commented:
“We created a cycle hire scheme in Greater Manchester to give more people access to an affordable, accessible and sustainable form of transport. As the scheme continues to grow, we’re looking for a partner to work alongside us, to continue delivering a first-class bike hire service that will give hundreds of thousands of Greater Manchester residents and workers an affordable, convenient and quick way to get around.
“Enabling active travel is a key target of the Bee Network, and the cycle hire scheme - along with significant investment in world class, segregated routes – will ensure cycling and walking is a safe and accessible transport option.
“This is a really exciting opportunity for an organisation to get involved and make a significant impact in Manchester, Salford and Trafford.”
Dame Sarah Storey, GM’s Active Travel Commissioner: “Since the cycle hire scheme launched in November 2021, ridership figures have exceeded expectations, which is a testament to how well needed the scheme is, and excitingly this is just the beginning.
We know the impact cycling has on people’s physical and mental health, so having a way to travel that supports health is a vital component in a liveable city region. Not only that but having more people make short journeys on foot or bike has a significant impact on congestion and, ultimately, the environment.
“It’s a really exciting moment in the progress of GM’s cycle hire scheme, and now’s the time to find a partner who will help the scheme continue to grow and support the region's ambitions to deliver the Bee Network.”
Parties interested in obtaining further information and/or expressing interest in the sponsorship opportunity should contact David Hoggins, Partnerships Director at PHAR Partnerships: