Pulhams will introduce the “Freeflow” tap-on, tap-off (TOTO) contactless ticketing system across most of its network from 26 July.
Developed in partnership with Ticketer, Freeflow is the branding for the TOTO system used by sister operators Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel since 2020.
Bourton-on-the-Water-based Pulhams, which operates routes across the Cotswolds, was acquired by those operators’ parent company, Go-Ahead, in 2023.
The system will allow passengers to tap on using the ticket machine when boarding and tap off when leaving the bus.
It will accept contactless bank cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay, and passengers will be automatically charged the cheapest fare based on distance travelled and taking into account daily and weekly fare capping.
Luke Marion, Managing Director of Pulhams, says: “This is another important step in our ongoing investment in modern ticketing technology.
“We continue to embrace technology and ensure our services are fully accessible. The introduction of Freeflow at Pulhams bolsters our vision to enhance the customer journey, with an eye on bringing in multi-ticketing functions at a later date.
“With Freeflow, passengers simply tap on and tap off, and the system calculates the best possible fare for their journey.
“It removes the need to carry the right money or choose the correct ticket, and it helps speed up boarding, so journeys are faster and more convenient.”
Gloucestershire County Council (GCC) supported the installation of the hardware through government Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding.
Councillor Roger Whyborn, cabinet member for sustainable transport at GCC, says: “We want to make using the bus as simple and convenient as possible, and this new tap-on, tap-off system is a great example of how technology can improve the passenger experience.
“It speeds up boarding and helps ensure people always get the best value for their journey.”
Freeflow will be available on all standard Pulhams services. The Robin demand-responsive services, Cirencester College services and Football Special services to the Kassam Stadium will continue to use their existing ticketing arrangements.
