The world’s first-ever commercial space line, Virgin Galactic, has tapped Brand Central to develop its consumer products program in North America.
The spaceline, which is owned by Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group and aabar Investments, has already sold more than 700 tickets–more than the total number of people who have gone to space ever. More than $80 million has already been raised in deposits.
Brand Central is working with William Morris Endeavor to develop sponsorship and brand integration partnerships for Virgin Galactic and to create a 360-degree brand extension program.
“Virgin Galactic has a global and aspirational appeal that will continue to transcend the world for many years to come,” says Ross Misher, chief executive officer, Brand Central. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to represent such an inventive brand and extend it into innovative, game-changing retail products. If you can’t go to space aboard Virgin Galactic, our products will be the next best thing.”
“We are delighted, and very excited, to be working with Brand Central to deliver a range of products that will allow people across America to share the Virgin Galactic experience as we take out first steps towards making space accessible for everyone,” says Stephen Attenborough, commercial director, Virgin Galactic.
Branson himself and his children will mark the start of the passenger service by taking their seats on Virgin Galactic’s inaugural commercial flight, which will be covered live by NBC, Virgin Galactic’s broadcast partner for North America. A date has not been set yet for the first flight.
A series of events are already planned for the inaugural flight including a reality show (also intended for NBC), a technology and music festival to be held near Spaceport America in New Mexico called Zero G Colony, a publishing range and an IMAX documentary.
