FirstGroup has signed an agreement to purchase York Pullman Bus Company.
York Pullman, which comprises five well-established brands in the provision of bus and coach services, has a strong presence in regional and business-to-business operations in York and the surrounding area of North Yorkshire.
It is mainly a provider of home-to-school and college contracted services and private hire operations including rail replacement.
York Pullman also comprises a small number of local bus routes operated on behalf of several local authorities and complementary to the operations of First Bus operations in York.
The business has a mixed fleet of more than 130 vehicles with varying passenger capacity which has enabled it to build a broad range of customers.
FirstGroup says the acquisition of the York Pullman business will both enhance its operational footprint in North Yorkshire and provide growth opportunities in adjacent markets and development of its private hire capability.
Managing Director of York Pullman, Tom James, will remain with the company and continue to run it on a standalone basis with support from the existing York Pullman team alongside the First Bus executive team.
In addition he will contribute to the development of the First Bus coach services growth strategy.
Graham Sutherland, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer said: “A key pillar of our strategy is to grow and diversify our portfolio.
“The acquisition of York Pullman – a long-established, high-performing business – fits well with our strategy as it will both enhance the First Bus operational footprint in North Yorkshire and expand our adjacent services business, where we are looking to grow our presence.”
