FirstGroup plc has finalized an agreement to acquire Ensign Bus Company Limited (‘Ensignbus’), an Essex-based business recognized for its robust presence in business-to-business (B2B) and regional commercial bus operations, as well as vehicle refurbishment and re-sale services.
The acquisition, subject to customary regulatory review, is expected to be concluded within the next few months.
Ensignbus, known for its strong performance, particularly in Essex, offers a variety of services including regional commercial and B2B bus operations, alongside well-established vehicle refurbishment and re-sale operations.
Its commercial bus operations complement First Bus’ operations in Essex, including a local bus route network, as well as B2B segments such as rail replacement and private hire contract operations.
While Ensignbus’s young fleet of 55 buses will be part of the acquisition, its specialist heritage fleet is excluded from the transaction.
The acquisition is expected to enhance FirstGroup’s existing local commercial bus operations in Essex and provide growth opportunities in the B2B and bus vehicle dealership markets.
Graham Sutherland, Chief Executive Officer of FirstGroup, expressed anticipation about the acquisition, highlighting its potential to expand the company’s B2B offerings and operational footprint in Essex.
Peter Newman, Chairman of Ensignbus, extended gratitude to Ensignbus employees for their dedication and announced full support for them during the transition to First Bus. Newman expressed confidence in First Bus’s ability to lead Ensignbus forward successfully, emphasizing its reputation for customer service, innovation, and sustainability.
