Two become one?

NATIONAL Express Group is in talks to purchase Stagecoach Group. While neither company is currently in the UK rail market, Stagecoach holds the contract to operate Sheffield Supertram, which is due to end in 2024. NEG’s German rail portfolio, which is centred on North-Rhine-Westphalia includes contracts for Rhine Munster Express and Rhine-Ruhr Express. NEG said the combined business in the UK would be able to offer “a nationwide solution for rail emergency and routine rail replacement services.” Both companies stressed that the talks were still ongoing and that “there can be no certainty that an offer will be made.” NEG has until October 19 to make a firm offer.