Stagecoach Manchester and Wigan

[MX12EOC]

RE: Stagecoach Manchester

(17/02/2013 21:05)Bevan Price Wrote:  

(17/02/2013 20:18)MX12EOC Wrote:  Well, a rumour has emerged that stagecoach have bid on Bolton and Bury depots for £36,200,000 (appx) as well as that it may seem like monopolising the market as they are seeking advice from the OfT about putting a bid on Oldham and Cheetham Hill (Queens Road [I believe]) depots so there possibly won't be any existence of first in Greater Manchester. I've been told this (rumour I think it is) by a fairly reliable source. If I get any updates I'll keep you guys posted! (:

I would be very surprised if the OFT let Stagecoach acquire any more big operators / depots in the Manchester area.
If First actually wanted to sell, I think they would need to find an alternative buyer that has no, (or few) operations in the Manchester area.

Well, stagecoach would be able to fulfill the price of any depot in Manchester and keep it running to a high standard but I wouldn't see Arriva buying any depots in Manchester at the time being because they have one depot only in Wythenshawe (I believe) and they got rid of their Manchester depot. Though, I'm too quick to judge on this.