FirstGroup has announced the acquisition of Hills Coaches, a Wolverhampton based operator providing a range of services including private hire, day excursions and long-term contracts.
The acquisition will be operated by First Bus and forms part of the Group’s overall strategy to grow a new, diversified coach portfolio, as well as expand its operational footprint in key regional markets.
Founded in 1965; Hills Coaches operates a fleet of 22 coaches and employs a total of 40 people from its depot in Wolverhampton.
All employees will retain their positions under First Bus, and all existing services, contracts and bookings will go ahead as planned.
Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director, Business & Coach for First Bus, said:This acquisition underlines our commitment to growing our coach division in a considered and sustainable way, whilst expanding our operational footprint and strengthening our position in key regional markets and I am delighted that this is our first acquisition in the West Midlands.
Hills Coaches is a respected operator with a strong team and an established reputation. It is a strong strategic fit, bringing local expertise, loyal customers and high operational standards that complement our existing coach operations. We’re pleased to add Hills Coaches into the First Bus coach portfolio, and I look forward to working with the team.
The acquisition of Hills Coaches is the latest in a line of previous purchases for FirstGroup, including Anderson Travel, J&B Travel, Lakeside Group, Matthew’s Coaches, Tetley’s Coaches and York Pullman.
