First Group has started a scheme in the South West of England allowing passengers to buy tickets over the counter of around 600 outlets, in a partnership with PayPoint.
From November 16 passengers were able to buy First Week, FirstMonth and FirstTen tickets over the counter from local shops.
The scheme, covering Bristol, Avon and Somerset areas follows similar partnerships in south Wales, Devon and Cornwall in the South West of the UK.
Talking about the new payment method, Marc Reddy, regional business and commercial growth director for First in the South West and Wales, said: “When our customers told us they wanted an easy and convenient way to buy tickets in advance we identified PayPoint as the solution. Customers will be able to buy their monthly bus tickets, or FirstTen tickets, while at the local newsagent, garage, supermarket or convenience store – many of which are open long hours and often seven days a week.
“Obtaining tickets in advance helps speed up boarding time at the bus stop, enabling us to improve reliability and punctuality. It also means customers need not carry lots of change with them.”
Seamus Smith, managing director of PayPoint UK, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with First Bristol, Somerset and Avon to ensure bus users in the region are easily able to purchase their bus tickets in advance from convenient locations.”
