Plan B Media is the publisher of PLUguide (PLU as in ‘People Like Us’) and PLUTO Magazine in China, Hong kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand. PLUguide established since 2004.
PLUguide is a print and online guide for GLBTQ and features locations and events in major cities in Asia. Being the only printed gay guide in many countries in Asia, PLUguide is the most effective way to tap into the “pink dollar”. We have printed and distributed more than ten million copies throughout Asia.
Official website ; www.pluguide.com
PLUguide was founded by Lawrence Chia who saw the need and viability of a free PLU map in Singapore when he had many friends asking him for directions to PLU venues. A survey was conducted and the feedback from the PLU business owners was positive.
The first PLUguide Singapore was released in April 2004 with much support from the Singapore PLU business owners. It was published bi-monthly and by the third issue, the PLU community in Singapore had one way or another heard about PLUguide. Demand for the guide grew with some issues subsequently going out of print.
With such overwhelming success, PLUguide decided to spread its wings. The first step in regional expansion was in August 2004 with the release of the first issue of PLUguide Malaysia. Starting with only Kuala Lumpur, the second issue grew with the inclusion of Johor Bahru and subsequently, Penang in the third issue.
In April 2005, PLUguide Thailand - Bangkok was introduced in Thailand to cool reception due to aggressive competition from similar local PLU publications. However with its unique cosmopolitan look, it finally won over the hearts of the Bangkok PLU community.
But all was not a bed of roses, the first issue of PLUguide Thailand - Phuket was released in October 2005. Unfortunately, it was to be the first and only issue mainly due to the effect of the tsunami in December 2004 to the Phuket tourism industry. After much consideration, the publication of PLUguide Thailand - Phuket was ceased.
In line with expansion plans, PLUguide Hong Kong was released in February 2006 followed by PLUguide Taiwan in October 2006. By then, PLUguide had reached 5 countries with more editions in the pipeline. But publishing too many different editions was not a viable option. Out of necessity, the idea of compiling all the countries into one concise edition emerged. Thus, a PLU mobile app was conceived with the intention to inform, entertain and ultimately, provide a showcase of the Asia PLU community from an Asian perspective.
Certainly, PLU mobile app is a new era for PLUguide with many more good things in store for the future.