Visarc goes Ape

The entire UK launch of Piaggio Ape, the quirky three-wheel pick-up trucks and vans, will be marketed by full service agency Visarc.

The Piaggio Ape (pronounced Aah-pay and meaning bee in Italian) are a familiar site on Mediterranean streets and will be recognised by anyone who travels there regularly. Recently, the Piaggio Ape has also become a familiar site on our screens appearing in Orangina TV ads and Jamie Oliverís latest programme ìJamieís Great Italian Escapeî. Powered by 50cc and 200cc engines and available in many different body styles, these unique vehicles provide economical commercial vehicle transportation to thousands of businesses.

Robin Raine, Managing Director of Pro-Truck (the newly appointed distributor of Piaggio Ape in the UK) said ìWe are delighted to have been appointed as sole distributors for the Ape range and are working closely with Visarc to develop our launch plans. Visarc were chosen because of their ability to provide us with a full service from websites to literature, their strategic input and also because they already work with Piaggio LTVì. Robin added ìthe early signs are very positive. Weíre already receiving twenty to thirty enquiries a week and thatís without starting any marketing activityî

This follows a string of new client wins for Visarc who also handle the Ferrari and Maserati accounts. Following one of the recent launch meetings with Pro-Truck, Senior Account Manager Emma Pinder said ìThe Piaggio Ape offers many opportunities for communication and marketing. Not only is it an extremely versatile and low cost commercial vehicle, but it also opens up a wide range of alternative opportunities. For example, it is a very effective means for roadside media. A display system has been developed for the pick-ups and these will be available for hire. Weíre convinced that this niche product will have presence and awareness way beyond current expectations.î

Work has already begun on developing a UK website to handle all traffic and will soon be followed with the development of the full range of marketing materials.