A simple, regioselective, environmentally cleaner and economical method for the electrochemical preparation of benzyl bromide from toluene by two-phase electrolysis is reported. Electrochemical bromination of toluene is carried out in an undivided cell at 0 degrees C and the process parameters are studied and optimized. In this method 94% yield and 98% conversion is achieved. (c) 2006 Published by Elsevier Ltd.