National Express on the move in Morocco

Coach firm National Express has agreed a key deal in Morocco worth some € 1 billion (£ 883 million), helping it to become the country’s biggest transport operator.

The 500- bus contract will cover three cities and span more than 60 routes. It will initially run for 15 years, with an option for a sevenyear extension, over which time National Express is expected to generate € 1bn in revenue.

The contract was awarded to the group’s Spanish and Moroccan division, ASLA, which will operate it as the majority shareholder in a joint venture with local transport outfit Citybus.

It is the fifth contract in the country for National Express.