First Midland introduces new ticketing options that reflect customers’ post-pandemic travel needs
- New range of ticket options introduced to improve bus travel across the network
- Some fare prices will rise with ticketing updates, but most customers will see better value and flexibility overall
First Midland is introducing a new range of ticketing options from 1st May 2022, offering customers greater flexibility and value when they travel by bus.
The ticketing updates have been designed to reflect today’s post-pandemic travel needs following a detailed analysis of passenger and purchasing data. As a result, First Midland expects the new ticket options will help many customers save money.
The new range of tickets will enable customers to travel flexibly over a number of days, taking journeys that suit their new work, travel or caring patterns.
Among the new, better value options are Mobile tickets which offer ‘3-in-7’ (from £12.50 student, £14.40 adult), ‘10-in-28’ (from £38.40 student, £43.90 adult) and ‘15-in-28’ (from £52.80 student, £65.50 adult) options across First Midland zones. Available on the First Bus App, customers can spread a set number of journeys across seven and 28-day validity periods, enabling them to choose the appropriate ticket best suited to them and providing greater flexibility and value for money. First Midland is also continuing with its participation in the Scottish Government’s scheme to provide free travel to under 22s.
The overhaul of First Midland ticketing options will see existing fares increase by an average of 5.7%. With the newly designed fares suiting the swift rise of hybrid working and the end of the traditional five-day commute, locals are being offered journeys that are more cost-effective compared to previous prices. First Bus has ensured no fares in the area will increase by more than the current CPI inflation rate of 7%.
Duncan Cameron, Managing Director of First Bus Scotland said: “The new pricing creates a simpler, fairer and more flexible choice of tickets. So whether you only travel on weekends, or are a ‘new normal’ commuter, our new tickets options reflect today’s real-world travel.
“These changes are essential to allow us to continue to deliver services across Falkirk and Stirlingshire for our customers. We have worked hard to keep any fare increases to a minimum – ensuring that no increase surpasses Consumer Price Inflation - and continue to offer customers the cheapest fares via the First Bus App.
“There’s never been a better time to make bus travel part of your everyday routine and we are confident that with these changes, we’ll see people in the local area choose bus over car as their preferred mode of travel, benefitting both the environment and their pockets.”
More information can be found at firstscotlandeast.com/fares
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Notes to editors
Notes to editors
About First Bus
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