FirstGroup announce acquisition of Matthews Coach Hire

FirstGroup plc today announced the acquisition of Matthews Coach Hire Limited, the independent, family-owned coach and bus operator, founded in 1995.

With a fleet of more than 40 vehicles that includes two newly acquired electric coaches the business is built around the operation of six licensed, commercial routes between two key and rapidly growing commuter towns, Drogheda and Dundalk. The acquisition includes the operator's freehold depot, located between Dublin and Belfast.

Members of Matthews' leadership team will remain with the business to lead the day-to-day operations - with oversight provided by Kim Swan, Managing Director, Aircoach and the wider First Bus leadership team.

Commenting on the acquisition, Graham Sutherland, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer said: “The acquisition of Matthews Coach Hire, an established, profitable business builds on our recent strategic acquisitions in First Bus. It will complement our existing operations and allow us to expand our presence in the non-airport commuter and B2B markets in Ireland and we look forward to taking the business forward.”

Kim Swan, Managing Director of Aircoach, said: “Matthews Coach provides a vital service for commuters in Louth and Meath. We’re delighted that the Matthews Coach leadership team will remain on to lead day-to-day operations, utilising their huge experience and knowledge of the local market. Commuters can be assured that the excellent service and value for money they’ve come to expect from Matthews Coach will continue going forward. It is very much business-as-usual.”