McGill's Buses Shortlisted for Three UK National Transport Awards
McGill’s Bus Group, the UK’s largest independent bus operator, has been shortlisted for an impressive three awards at the prestigious UK National Transport Awards 2024.
The Scottish based group, owned by Sandy and James Easdale, has been shortlisted for UK Bus Operator of the Year as well as in the Exemplary Contribution to Net Zero category.
In the Best Bus Service category, McGill’s Group has also been nominated for its new Glasgow nightbus service.
McGill’s stepped in to take over the running of several of Glasgow’s nightbus routes after it was announced that existing operator, First Glasgow, was pulling out of the services.
Since introducing the route in August 2023, the McGill’s services have been a huge hit with passengers, culminating in this national award nomination.
James Easdale, chairman of McGill’s Group, expressed his delight at the nominations, explaining: “It is an exceptional achievement to be nominated at a UK level and to be in the running for three awards is terrific.
“We’re absolutely delighted to be nominated for UK Bus Operator of the Year once again. Although there are politicians and officials who put forward their ideologically driven arguments for the nationalisation of bus services in Glasgow, this nomination highlights that McGill’s are delivering a service that is at the very top in comparison to many other cities and towns across the UK.
“A nomination for our new nightbus network as Best Bus Service is also hugely pleasing. The team worked hard to get the service up and running in a short timeframe and is has been very well received by passengers.”
Mr Easdale added that McGill’s was committed to both investment in environmental innovation and growing the company’s presence.
James continued: “McGill’s Group is dedicated to providing top-tier service for our passengers while prioritising environmental sustainability. We strive to lead the way in public transport innovation, with investment of more than £50million in zero emission electric buses, and being acknowledged at the UK National Transport Awards is a testament to our efforts.
“The acquisitions of Xplore Dundee from National Express and the Scotland East business from First Group in recent years have strengthened our position to rival established operators. We aim to pursue this growth trajectory, ensuring long-term advantages for our passengers.”
The winners of the National Transport Awards 2024 will be announced at an event in London on October 3rd, 2024.