A billionaire pair of brothers have pledged to empower local decision-makers on bus services as they take over running of the regional network.
Sandy and James Easdale, the owners of McGill’s Buses, have made the undertaking after completing the acquisition of First Scotland East, who have previously run services around Stirling and Clackmannanshire to much criticism from passengers.
The company has also unveiled the use of two new retro liveries for their buses, with the buses harking back to iconic designs of the past.
McGill’s have now taken over the running of Bannockburn, Larbert and Balfron depots and all of the First Scotland East fleet, with a total of 550 staff moving over as a result of the move.
Services in Stirling and Falkirk area will be branded as McGill’s Midland Bluebird whilst services in West Lothian will be branded as McGill’s Eastern Scottish.
Sandy Easdale, director of McGill’s Group, added: “As seen across our businesses and in McGill’s Group, we have a clear vison for growth and profitability and we are able to conclude deals speedily and with the minimum of fuss.
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“The opportunity to bring First Scotland East businesses into McGill’s was always an attractive proposition to us and it now gives us a presence across the central belt.
“Whilst others may be shying away from expansion given the unsettled economic picture, we are continually seeking new opportunities to invest in transport, construction and property.”
The operator’s CEO, Ralph Roberts, added: “There is scope to rejuvenate the Scotland East businesses to ensure we can combine the advantages of the McGill’s Group with effective, local management that will benefit passengers.
“In the period to come we will be examining every area of the business to revitalise our offering such as customer interaction, staff development and training, vehicle quality and local decision-making.
“One of our key priorities will be to invest in the fleet and bring down the average age of buses on the road – that will be to the benefit of passengers, staff and the environment.”
