Honda rolls out video driven digital magazine

LONDON - Honda is to produce a digital version of its customer magazine Dream, which will be sent directly to inboxes.

Produced by River Publishing, the rollout of the electronic edition follows a successful trial in January. The magazine is also available as a standalone site, but it is not being promoted as such and Honda intends it only for existing customers.

The Flash 8 e-magazine is being sent to an existing database of Honda customers who will also be able to not only view articles, but watch videos and directly book test drives. Future issues of the electronic magazine will use bespoke content filmed by River's new digital division.

Advertisers will be encouraged to supply media copy for the publication, including flash animation and TV ads.

Vicky Mason, customer dialogue manager at Honda UK, said: "The first electronic issue was a great success -- even better than we expected. It achieved excellent email open rates and click-throughs to the magazine and over 25% of readers completed feedback on their experience of it."

Beth Hodder, publisher at River, said: "The main objective of both Dream and Dream online is to build a relationship with Honda customers and to drive customer loyalty.

"Following the success of the first issue we will be introducing a send to a friend option and actively encouraging more customers to sign up through the printed magazine."

River Publishing has previously launched electronic projects for American Golf and Co-op Travel Group.