FirstGroup plc has officially completed its acquisition of RATP Dev Transit London, repurposing the company as First Bus London.
First Group’s first foray into the London bus market, the finalisation of the acquisition marks the creation of a combined operation responsible for a fleet of more than 5,750 vehicles across the UK.
A major player in the London bus market, RATP Dev Transit London previously held a market share of approximately 12%, with the acquisition of the company set to add 1,000 buses across 83 routes to the First Group service portfolio.
Colin Brown, Chief Financial Officer at First Bus, who will be leading the team at First Bus London said:The successful integration of First Bus London marks a pivotal moment in our strategy to expand our operations and strengthen our contribution to sustainable travel across the UK and Ireland.
We are entering the London bus market in a strong position and this will also bolster our credentials to participate as a partner of choice in future franchising opportunities across the UK.
We’re exceptionally well-positioned to accelerate innovation in fleet electrification, enhancing service quality for the millions of passengers who rely on us daily.
The purchase was first announced on 10 December 2024, and was valued at approximately 100 million GBP in physical assets, including 50 million GBP worth of freehold properties.
The integration will seek to bring together more than 17,200 colleagues, including First Bus London’s 3,700 who will remain in their current roles.
Current supplier relationships and points of contact are set to remain unchanged, with First Bus London stating intentions to convert three existing routes to electric vehicles, as well as introduce a brand-new electric route, by the end of 2025.
