FirstGroup PLC
LSE:FGP
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FirstGroup PLC
FirstGroup PLC, a stalwart in the transportation sector, weaves its operations through the intricate tapestry of passenger mobility. Emerging at the turn of the millennium from the unification of two bus operators in the UK, FirstGroup has grown into a formidable entity within the UK and North American transport domains. The company's operations span bus and train services in the UK with First Bus and First Rail, and it manages a significant chunk of transit through First Student and First Transit across the United States. At its core, FirstGroup is in the business of moving people—whether it’s providing daily commutes via urban buses in cities like Glasgow and London or managing expansive rail networks including the Avanti West Coast and Great Western Railway.
Revenue streams for FirstGroup PLC are as diversified as its services. The company generates income by charging passengers fares on its scheduled bus and rail services, often underpinned by long-term government contracts and subsidies that provide financial stability and predictability. In North America, First Student taps into the lucrative school bus market, where it secures revenue through contracts with school districts, operating fleets that deliver students safely across routes nationwide. Meanwhile, First Transit offers expertise and services to urban transit systems, often managing and operating local public transport services on behalf of municipalities. Through this blend of public and private client relationships, government partnerships, and a strategic presence in critical mobility hubs, FirstGroup effectively anchors itself within the transport ecosystem, facilitating seamless connections between individuals and destinations.
FirstGroup PLC, a stalwart in the transportation sector, weaves its operations through the intricate tapestry of passenger mobility. Emerging at the turn of the millennium from the unification of two bus operators in the UK, FirstGroup has grown into a formidable entity within the UK and North American transport domains. The company's operations span bus and train services in the UK with First Bus and First Rail, and it manages a significant chunk of transit through First Student and First Transit across the United States. At its core, FirstGroup is in the business of moving people—whether it’s providing daily commutes via urban buses in cities like Glasgow and London or managing expansive rail networks including the Avanti West Coast and Great Western Railway.
Revenue streams for FirstGroup PLC are as diversified as its services. The company generates income by charging passengers fares on its scheduled bus and rail services, often underpinned by long-term government contracts and subsidies that provide financial stability and predictability. In North America, First Student taps into the lucrative school bus market, where it secures revenue through contracts with school districts, operating fleets that deliver students safely across routes nationwide. Meanwhile, First Transit offers expertise and services to urban transit systems, often managing and operating local public transport services on behalf of municipalities. Through this blend of public and private client relationships, government partnerships, and a strategic presence in critical mobility hubs, FirstGroup effectively anchors itself within the transport ecosystem, facilitating seamless connections between individuals and destinations.
Revenue Growth: Adjusted revenue rose 30% to £834 million, driven mainly by the acquisition of First Bus London and growth in bus and rail services.
EPS & Dividends: Adjusted earnings per share increased 16% to 9.9p, with an interim dividend up 29% to 2.2p per share, reflecting strong performance and share buybacks.
Cost Headwinds Managed: The company offset higher wage inflation, increased national insurance contributions, and lower bus funding in England through operational efficiencies and restructuring.
Bus Business: Operating profit grew 4% despite softer commercial volumes and funding cuts, helped by yield improvements, cost savings, and recent acquisitions.
Electrification Progress: 23% of the bus fleet is now zero-emission, unlocking efficiencies like a 20% fuel cost reduction per mile over three years.
Guidance & Outlook: Management expects modest adjusted EPS growth in FY2026 and to at least maintain this higher level in FY2027, supported by a strong balance sheet and UK-focused growth strategy.
Capital Allocation: No extension to the buyback program for now; focus remains on UK growth opportunities and returning surplus cash to shareholders.
