Procters, Esk Valley, Fourway and Compass Rosyton have become the latest local independent operators to join the Go-Ahead Group’s expanding portfolio of coach companies
The Go-Ahead Group says it is proud to be able to announce the acquisition of four regional coach companies to add to its growing portfolio of such operations across the UK and marking a significant expansion in its presence in North and West Yorkshire, and the North East. The acquisition includes Procters Coaches in North Yorkshire, Compass Royston in the Stockton, Middlesbrough & Teesside area, Esk Valley in North Yorkshire and the East Riding, and Fourway Coaches in West Yorkshire.
The acquisition will add 200 new employees and a fleet of 140 vehicles across five depots to Go-Ahead’s operations, strengthening its foothold in the region where it says it is continuing to build key relationships with local authorities and commercial partners.
Go-Ahead says the established and successful companies collectively bring a wealth of experience and a diverse range of services, including tendered local bus routes, home-to-school transport, private hire, and commercial contracts, and that the acquisition underscores its commitment to enhancing connectivity and service excellence in the region.
Chief Executive of Go-Ahead Bus Matt Carney said: “This acquisition aligns seamlessly with Go-Ahead’s overarching mission to provide reliable, accessible, and sustainable transport solutions. We are committed to upholding our values of caring for our customers, our team, and our communities, while maintaining our position as trusted industry leaders.”
Ben Gilligan, Managing Director at Go-Ahead’s East Yorkshire Buses subsidiary, which will manage the newly acquired businesses, said: “We are excited to welcome these reputable companies into the Go-Ahead family, this acquisition represents a milestone in our growth journey, allowing us to expand our operations across a broader geography in Yorkshire.”
The acquisition builds upon Go-Ahead’s existing operations in the region, complementing the success of East Yorkshire Buses. Over recent years, East Yorkshire Buses has expanded its geographical footprint with notable contracts including JustGo North Lincs in 2020 and more recently the North Riding services operating in North Yorkshire.
Kevin Procter, who founded Procters Coaches in 1990, shared his sentiments: “We’re proud of everything we’ve achieved in the past 30 years. I turned my father’s taxi company into Procters Coaches, starting with one minibus and one large coach. We have been on a journey of growth and innovation, and we are excited to hand over to the trusted Go-Ahead Group. We are fully supportive of Go-Ahead’s commitment to our team and their approach to driving positive change in the UK coach market, for local communities, customers, and the region.”
