Most holders are pretty basic, but new stuff in works
The TTC is taking a long-overdue look at how it markets itself.
Last November, when the TTC started issuing two-tone metal tokens, John Kuhne of Toronto wrote, “Where can people find new token holders, or do they not yet exist? My convenience-store blue (plastic) holder cannot accept the new tokens, which are marginally thicker.”
For all you transit customers tired of losing those valuable little bimetal TTC coins, the private sector has at last come to the rescue with a range of ways to carry your fare media.
Many riders choose paper tickets because they are easier to keep track of — despite the fact they can’t be used in turnstiles.
Subway collectors don’t sell token holders, but many would love to tell inquiring riders where to buy them.
I recently spotted updated versions of the flat plastic devices for sale at the Gateway News stand on the northbound platform of Dundas station.
At less than $2, they are very basic — and you may have to search for a store that sells them.
If you want to spend a little more, there is also a new product to hold tokens and coins called Port’Sou (French for penny-carrier, roughly).
These “coin managers” cost about $6 and contain special spring-loaded slots for about five TTC tokens and everything from pennies to toonies.
Co-owner Marc August of the fledgling company sent me a few samples and they appear sturdy and well-designed.
Until more stores that cater to transit riders begin to stock these handy devices, your best bet is to order online at portsou.com.
There is one shop in Toronto that specializes in TTC merchandise, and it offers yet another style of token holder.
“Transit Stuff” in Union subway station sells a cylindrical dispenser, which holds about 50 tokens. They cost a few dollars each, or you get one free with a purchase of $25 in products like clothing or hats with TTC logos.
This line of official merchandise made by Legacy Sportwear has been roundly criticized for uninspired designs. Owner Rick Ferri acknowledges this, hoping a fresh set of images on T-shirts and other apparel will catch on the way similar items from London, U.K., and New York have. He says the website legacysportswear.com will soon be revamped to show the new products.
The TTC is taking a long-overdue look at how it markets itself, and that means a lot more than just clothes and ways to carry tokens or Metropasses.
It’s time to take advantage of the incredible pool of design and marketing talent in Toronto and make our transit agency one of the most admired in the world.
