McGill’s Bus Group, the UK’s largest independent transport group, is pleased to announce that it has been highly commended at the Scottish Transport Awards. 

The company, owned by leading Scottish businessmen Sandy and James Easdale, was recognised in the prestigious Public Transport Operator of the Year category.

The award comes at a time when the Inverclyde-headquartered firm has been rapidly expanding its operations through the acquisition of Xplore Dundee, the purchase of First Bus operations in central Scotland, and the growing partnership it enjoys with FlixBus to deliver long-haul coach journeys around Scotland and the UK.

The Scottish Transport Awards, renowned for celebrating excellence and innovation in the sector, attracts entries from across the country, making McGill’s commendation all the more significant.

This achievement reaffirms McGill’s position as a leading provider of public transportation and recognises the efforts of the company’s dedicated team.

Ralph Roberts, CEO of McGill’s Group, expressed his gratitude and pride in the McGill’s team, stating:

“This commendation is a testament to the work and dedication of our team and I would like to extend my congratulations to each and every member of the McGill’s Group. 

“The bus sector is not without its challenges and opportunities at this time but the team are striving to do their very best for the passengers and communities we serve on a daily basis and maintain the high standards we have set for McGill’s.”

McGill’s said that further investment in vehicles, training, and regional expansion were key targets for the business moving forward. 

Ralph added: “Thanks to the outstanding backing of owners Sandy and James Easdale, McGill’s has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, and we plan to continue this path in years to come. 

“We have acquired other businesses in Scotland and worked to improve the vehicles we use and the class-leading training we provide to colleagues in those regions.

“We have one of the largest electric fleets in Britain and we will undoubtedly add to this in future. 

“Buses will play a pivotal role in our journey towards a net zero future in Scotland and by providing an efficient and sustainable alternative to private car usage, we can encourage fewer cars onto the road, easing congestion and reducing emissions.

“Individuals want to make sustainable travel choices and it is up to the Government and us as a business to deliver on that.

“Almost four out of five public transport journeys are taken on the bus in Scotland and as we work collectively towards a greener future, investing in infrastructure by the government is crucial.

“McGill’s is proud to contribute to this eco-friendly effort and we’re delighted to be recognised as raising the bar for excellence and innovation in public transportation.”

McGill’s Buses