> The name of the perfume they're using is named after the (reputably) smelliest station on the Parisian Metro.

From thetube.com (London Underground's web site):


From Monday 23 April, Tube customers will notice a sweeter smell in the air. London Underground is trialling a novel air-enhancer at selected stations.

The fragrance, titled Madeleine*, will be trialed for one month in the platform and ticketing areas at St. James's Park, Euston and Piccadilly Circus stations.

Fragrance design house, Quest International, an ICI subsidiary, based in Ashford, Kent, has developed Madeleine for London Underground.

Ways of dispensing the aroma have been scientifically tested. The fragrance will be applied to floor surfaces and, once it has dried, held secure in microscopic envelopes until travellers walk across the treated floors, releasing the fragrance into the air as they pass.

Mike Brown, London Underground's Customer Services Director, Stations, said: "We are constantly looking at ways to make our stations more pleasant for our customers.

"Carrying over 3 million passengers a day the atmosphere down in our stations can become an interesting collection of odours reflecting all aspects of London life. Some nice - some not so nice.

"That's why we are trialling Madeleine to see if a refresher will make a positive difference. We'll see what our customers say. And if it's a hit, it could become a permanent item."

The scent is a fresh watery floral bouquet of rose and jasmine, combined with citrus top notes. Tiny touches of fruit and herbs give way to strong woody accents and a hint of sweetness in the base.

Both the Paris and Hong Kong metro systems regularly use fragrances in their stations. Studies reveal that, if the system smells fresh, customers feel more positive about their overall travelling experience.

The fragrance was christened Madeleine when it was first created for the Paris Metro in 1998. The London Underground fragrance is a variation of the Paris Metro scent. The freshener is technically known as SPxtra.

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