FirstGroup has launched a report into the social value it generates across the UK, which defines the wider economic, social and environmental effects of the company and its actions. The report reveals that FirstGroup generated £1.44bn of Gross Value Added contribution to the UK economy in the year ending 31 March 2022, spending £2.44bn on goods and services provided by UK firms. The Group is also a major employer, with one third of its employment falling within the 25% of local authority districts that have the highest rates of unemployment.
The report was produced with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr). Graham Sutherland, Chief Executive Officer of FirstGroup, said: “FirstGroup and our businesses play a key role at the heart of our communities. The essential services we provide are critical to delivering wider economic, social and environmental goals. This report demonstrates how we support prosperity, growth and jobs in the communities we serve, but also the vital role we play in reducing congestion on the roads, improving air quality and facilitating the transition to a zero-carbon world.”