Company summary
FirstGroup is a UK public-transport operator with major bus and rail businesses. First Bus operates across numerous UK cities, while First Rail runs contracted and open-access passenger services.
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FGP
FirstGroup
Travel & Leisure
- Index
- FTSE 250
- ISIN
- Not specified
- Book status
- 2026 edition — current
Key activities
Bus operations, rail franchises and contracts, open-access rail services, fleet electrification, depot infrastructure and associated passenger transport services.
Key markets
The United Kingdom, serving urban and regional bus passengers and rail customers through First Bus, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway, Hull Trains and Lumo.
Key drivers
Passenger volumes, government rail contracts, bus fares, concession income, electrification, open-access growth, cost efficiency, acquisitions and disciplined capital returns.
Key risks
Government rail policy, contract changes, labour costs and disputes, fuel and electricity prices, passenger-demand weakness, operational disruption and capital requirements for fleet replacement.
Recent Developments
18 June 2026: FY2026 adjusted revenue rose 25% to £1.72bn and adjusted EPS increased to 20.3p. FirstGroup announced a 5.0p final dividend, a new £100m buyback and around £400m of anticipated free cash generation over three years.
Dividend notes
Pays interim and final dividends. FY2026 total dividend was 7.2p, including a 5.0p final dividend paid on 7 August 2026 to shareholders on the register on 3 July. The company also announced a further £100m buyback.
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