From Fisrtbus: FirstGroup plc has completed the acquisition of RATP Dev’s sightseeing operations in London and Bath.
Currently operating under the brand Tootbus, the acquisition will strengthen FirstGroup’s presence across London and the south-west of England.
While the operations are primarily a sightseeing business, with a fleet of 63 buses – 42 in London and 21 in Bath – and about 190 employees, they also include the Airdecker service, connecting Bath to Bristol Airport.
As part of the acquisition, the company will take control of a large freehold depot in Wandsworth in south-west London alongside a leased depot in Keynsham near Bath.
The news follows FirstGroup’s purchase of RATP Dev’s London bus operations earlier this year – now operating as First Bus London – further cementing the Group’s position as one of the UK’s leading private-sector bus operators.
Entering the sightseeing market in London and Bath will further diversify FirstGroup’s business, and the additional depots will provide operational and cost efficiencies, and create opportunities for future expansion.
Graham Sutherland, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer, said: “The acquisition of the bus operations in London and Bath, in line with our UK-focused growth and diversification strategy, will allow us to further diversify and expand our footprint in two of our key markets. The integration of the businesses will also create material operational and cost synergies and the opportunity to grow our London route portfolio over time.”
Arnaud Masson, Senior Vice President of Digital and Sightseeing, RATP Dev, said: “Tootbus is a leading player in sightseeing in London and Bath, and we are proud of our teams for their achievements in building a strong brand that delivers a unique urban sightseeing experience to thousands of visitors every year. With confidence, we are divesting this company we cherish to FirstGroup, which is well positioned to take it further.”
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