Bus operator Rosso, which runs services in Bury, Littleborough, Rochdale and Rossendale, has reported a 15% increase in passenger numbers since it was acquired by Transdev Blazefield 18 months ago.
Since Rosso’s purchase from public sector control in January 2018, it has witnessed investment in vehicles that include contactless payment technology and wireless charging. Fare offers have also helped to drive the rise in patronage, says CEO Alex Hornby.
“The 15% increase in customer numbers travelling with us shows that our investment is attracting more people to the bus.
“And there is more to come, as we look to build on Rosso’s impressive performance with further improvements across the region.”
Mr Hornby adds that the rise in patronage demonstrates that innovative operators can deliver sustainable improvements, which in turn attract more customers, without requiring additional funding from taxpayers. “That has to be good news for everyone,” he says.
Since January 2018, Transdev Blazefield has invested £3m in 18 new buses for Rosso, which operate alongside 20 others that have been extensively refurbished. The operator has a total fleet of 102.
