Editing Go-Ahead Group

{{Short description|Public transport company}}
{{Use British English|date=November 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2019}}
{{Infobox company
| name = The Go-Ahead Group Limited
| logo = Go Ahead Logo 2023.svg
| former_name = {{Ubl
| Go-Ahead Northern Limited (1987–1994)<ref name="CompaniesHouse">{{Cite web |date=1987-02-17 |title=The Go-Ahead Group Limited overview - Find and update company information - GOV.UK |url=https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/02100855 |access-date=2024-09-15 |website=[[Companies House]] |language=en}}</ref>
| The Go-Ahead Group Plc (1994–2022)<ref name="CompaniesHouse" />
}}
| type = Subsidiary<br />[[Private Limited Company]]
| industry = Public transport
| foundation = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1987|2|17}}<ref name="CompaniesHouse" />
| location = [[Newcastle upon Tyne]], England<ref name="CompaniesHouse" />
| area_served = {{ubl|United Kingdom|Ireland|Australia|Singapore|Norway}}
| key_people = {{ubl|Miguel Parras (Group Chief Executive)}}
| products = Bus and rail services
| revenue = {{increase}} [[Pound sterling|£]]4,058.5&nbsp;million (2021)<ref name=AnnualReport>{{cite web|url=https://www.go-ahead.com/download_file/force/1586/242|title=Annual Report 2021|publisher=Go-Ahead Group|access-date=3 March 2022}}</ref>
| operating_income = {{increase}} [[Pound sterling|£]]115.5&nbsp;million (2021)<ref name=AnnualReport/>
| net_income = {{increase}} [[Pound sterling|£]](40.7)&nbsp;million (2021)<ref name=AnnualReport/>
| num_employees = 30,573 (2021)<ref name=AnnualReport/>
| parent = [[Kinetic Group]] (51%)<br />[[Globalvia]] (49%)
| homepage = {{Official URL}}
}}

'''Go-Ahead Group Limited''' is a [[Multinational corporation|multi-national]] [[transport]] group based in [[Newcastle upon Tyne]], England. While the majority of its operations are within Great Britain, it also operates services in Ireland, Australia, Singapore, and Norway. Go-Ahead was formerly listed on the [[London Stock Exchange]] prior to being purchased by [[Kinetic Group]] and [[Globalvia]] by 2022.

The Go-Ahead Group was originally founded in February 1987 as ''Go-Ahead Northern Limited'' as part of the wider [[privatisation]] of the [[National Bus Company (UK)|National Bus Company]]. Early expansion centred around the acquisition of several smaller competing bus operators in [[North East England]] and operating as a [[subcontractor]] to [[National Express Coaches|National Express]]; during the early 1990s, the [[Brighton & Hove (bus company)|Brighton & Hove]], [[Oxford Bus Company]], and [[London Central]] were all acquired. During May 1994, Go-Ahead was [[Initial public offering|floated]] on the London Stock Exchange.

In October 1996, Go-Ahead entered the UK railway sector via the operation of the [[Thames Trains]] franchise. Via the [[Govia]] joint venture, it bid for additional rail franchises in Britain, securing the [[Thameslink (train operating company 1997–2006)|Thameslink]] and later the [[Southeastern (train operating company 2006–2021)|Southeastern]] and [[London Midland]] operations.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Go-Ahead diversified into ground handling services at various British airports via the acquisition of [[Gatwick Handling|Gatwick Handling International]], [[British Midland International|British Midland]], and Reed Aviation. During 2010, Go-Ahead disposed of its airport-based operations, the majority being sold to [[Dnata UK]] and [[Servisair]]. During the early 2010s, Go-Ahead acquired numerous other British transport companies.

During late 2015, it was contracted to operate bus and rail services in Germany and [[Singapore]]; in subsequent years, Go-Ahead also expanded into Ireland and Norway. On 28 September 2021, Britain's [[Department for Transport]] terminated Go-Ahead's [[Southeastern (train operating company 2006–2021)|Southeastern franchise]] after the discovery of financial misconduct. During August 2022, a consortium of Australia's [[Kinetic Group]] (51%) and Spain's [[Globalvia]] (49%) took over Go-Ahead, having valued the company at £669 million. During January 2023, it was announced that Go-Ahead was expanding into the Australian market via the [[U-Go Mobility]] joint venture with the engineering company [[UGL (company)|UGL]].

==History==
===Incorporation===
[[File:Go Ahead Gateshead bus 3771 MCW Metrobus C771 OCN Metrocentre rally 2009 (1).JPG|thumb|Preserved [[Go North East]] [[MCW Metrobus]]]]
The Go-Ahead Group was originally founded as ''Go-Ahead Northern Limited'' on 17 February 1987 as a consequence of the [[privatisation]] of the [[National Bus Company (UK)|National Bus Company]], during which a partial [[management buyout]] led by [[Martin Ballinger]] and [[Chris Moyes]] purchased its [[Gateshead]]-based northern division, known as the [[Go North East|Northern General Transport Company]].<ref name=Times180906>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/storage/pdf/chief_executive.pdf Chris Moyes obituary] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002122723/http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/storage/pdf/chief_executive.pdf |date=2 October 2013 }} ''[[The Times]]'' 18 September 2006</ref> Early expansion of the company involved the acquisition of several smaller competing bus operators in [[North East England]], such as ''Gypsy Queen'' in 1989 and ''Low Fell Coaches'' in June 1992. Go-Ahead Northern also became a [[subcontractor]] to [[National Express Coaches|National Express]], operating services to the Midlands, North East, North West and South West England.<ref name=AnnualReport1994>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1994pres/ar1994.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 30 June 1994] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123165635/http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1994pres/ar1994.pdf |date=23 November 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref><ref name=AnnualReport1996>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1996pres/ar1996.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 29 June 1996] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123165203/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1996pres/ar1996.pdf |date=23 November 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref> Around the same time, Go-Ahead Leisure purchased a number of [[pub]]s,<ref name=AnnualReport1994/> which were sold on during February 1996.<ref name=AnnualReport1996/>

Despite bidding for a number of other larger bus operators in the intervening period, Go-Ahead's first major acquisition was [[Brighton & Hove (bus company)|Brighton & Hove]] in November 1993,<ref name=AnnualReport1994/><ref name="times">[http://www.thetimes100.co.uk/case-study--meeting-needs-competitive-sector--97-265-2.php Times 100 Case Study]  {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080906235345/http://www.thetimes100.co.uk/case-study--meeting-needs-competitive-sector--97-265-2.php |date=6 September 2008 }}</ref><ref name=History>[http://www.britishbuspublishing.co.uk/Go-Ahead-Group-Handbooks Go-Ahead History] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131014180210/http://www.britishbuspublishing.co.uk/Go-Ahead-Group-Handbooks |date=14 October 2013 }} ''Go-Ahead Group Handbook'' British Bus Publishing</ref> followed by the [[Oxford Bus Company]] and Wycombe Bus Company in March 1994.<ref name=AnnualReport1994/> In May 1997, the [[Brighton & Hove (bus company)|Brighton & Hove]] operation expanded with the acquisition of the former municipal operator Brighton Transport.<ref name="AnnualReport1997">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1997pres/ar1997.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 28 June 1997] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123165216/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1997pres/ar1997.pdf|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group</ref> During September 1999, [[Metrobus (South East England)|Metrobus]], a large operator operating in London, Surrey and Sussex was acquired.<ref name="times"/><ref name=AnnualReport2000>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2000pres/ar2000.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 1 July 2000] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123165806/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2000pres/ar2000.pdf |date=23 November 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref>

====Flotation and into London====
Initially, Go-Ahead was structured as an unlisted public company and was owned 90 percent by its management. In May 1994, it was [[Initial public offering|floated]] on the [[London Stock Exchange]].<ref name=AnnualReport1994/><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/all-aboard-for-goaheads-float-1428442.html |title = All aboard for Go Ahead's float |work = The Independent |date = 11 March 1994}}</ref>

In October 1994, Go-Ahead purchased [[London Central]] during the [[Privatisation of London bus services|privatisation of London Buses]].<ref name="Times180906" /><ref name="History" /><ref name="AnnualReport1995">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1995pres/ar1995.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 30 June 1995] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123165542/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1995pres/ar1995.pdf |date=23 November 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref> In March 1995, [[OK Motor Services]] was purchased and integrated into the [[Go North East]] operation.<ref name=AnnualReport1995/><ref>{{usurped|1=[http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20120119144236/http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/rep_pub/reports/1996/379go.htm The Go-Ahead Group plc and OK Motor Services Limited: A report on the merger situation]}} [[Competition Commission]] 1996</ref> In June 1996, a second London bus operation, [[London General]], was acquired from the management team that had purchased it when privatised.<ref name=Times180906/><ref name=AnnualReport1996/><ref name=History/>

==== Airport services====
In October 1998, Go-Ahead diversified with the acquisition of [[Gatwick Handling|Gatwick Handling International]], a provider of ground handling services at UK airports.<ref name="AnnualReport1999">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1999pres/ar1999.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 3 July 1999] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123170503/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1999pres/ar1999.pdf|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group</ref> Go-Ahead acquired the ground handling operations of [[British Midland International|British Midland]] and Midland Airport Services in March 2001, followed by Reed Aviation in August 2001. All these operations, including at Gatwick, all were rebranded as [[Aviance UK|Aviance]].<ref name="AnnualResults2001">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2001pres/ar2001.pdf Go-Ahead annual results 30 June 2001] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123165824/http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2001pres/ar2001.pdf|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group</ref>

In May 2002, Go-Ahead diversified again,<ref name="AnnualReport2002">{{Cite web |title=Go-Ahead Annual Report 29 June 2002 |url=http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2002pres/ar2002.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123170333/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2002pres/ar2002.pdf |archive-date=23 November 2012}}</ref> acquiring airport-focused ''Meteor Parking''.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.meteormeetandgreet.com |title = Meteor parking website |publisher = Go-Ahead Group}}</ref> Included in the purchase of Gatwick Handling International in 1998 was a 50% shareholding in [[Dnata UK|Plane Handling]], and in August 2004 Go-Ahead purchased the remaining 50% from [[Virgin Group|Virgin Aviation]].<ref name="Annualreport2005">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2005pres/ar2005/ar2005.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 2 July 2005] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123165843/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2005pres/ar2005/ar2005.pdf|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group</ref> In December 2006 [[Gatwick Airport]] parking operator PAS was purchased and integrated into Meteor Parking, followed by security provider Nikaro in February 2007.<ref name="AnnualReport2007" />

In January 2010, Go-Ahead disposed of most of its airport-based operations via a sale to [[Dnata UK]] and [[Servisair]].<ref>[http://www.go-ahead.com/media/news/2009news/2009-12-03.aspx Go-Ahead to Sell the Majority of its Aviation Ground Handling and Cargo Operations] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123140250/http://go-ahead.com/media/news/2009news/2009-12-03.aspx|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group 3 December 2009</ref>  In September 2010, Meteor Parking was sold to [[Vinci SA]], bringing Go-Ahead's involvement in the aviation support industry to a close.<ref name="AnnualReport2011">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2011pres/ar-2011-v2.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 2 July 2011] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123173755/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2011pres/ar-2011-v2.pdf|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group</ref>

=== 1996 – 2010 ===

==== Entering the railway sector ====
In October 1996, Go-Ahead entered the UK rail market when it commenced operating the [[Thames Trains]] franchise, which it ran until March 2004. The franchise was awarded by the [[Director of Passenger Rail Franchising]] to Victory Rail Holdings; Go-Ahead owned 65% of the shares in Victory Rail Holdings with the remaining 35% held by some ex [[British Rail]] managers and employees.<ref name="AnnualReport1997" /> Go-Ahead bought the remaining shares it did not own in June 1998.<ref name="AnnualReport1998">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1998pres/ar1998.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 27 June 1998] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123170200/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/1998pres/ar1998.pdf|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group</ref>

Also in 1996, Go-Ahead entered into the [[Govia]] joint venture with French company VIA-GTI (which later became [[Keolis]]), in order to bid for more UK rail franchises. Govia was 65% owned by Go-Ahead. Govia was awarded the [[Thameslink (train operating company 1997–2006)|Thameslink]] franchise, which it ran from March 1997 until March 2006.<ref>{{cite web |date=1 September 2001 |title=Extension not competition as franchise replacement stalls |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/extension-not-competition-as-franchise-replacement-stalls.html |access-date=21 April 2017 |work=Railway Gazette International |archive-date=7 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170907215028/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/extension-not-competition-as-franchise-replacement-stalls.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>

During August 2001, [[Govia]] started running the South Central rail franchise. In October 2000, the Shadow [[Strategic Rail Authority]] awarded Govia the South Central rail franchise with operations due to commence in May 2003 when the [[Connex South Central]] franchise expired.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/988016.stm |title = Connex loses rail franchise |publisher = [[BBC News]] |date = 24 October 2000}}</ref> Govia negotiated a deal with [[Veolia Transport|Connex]] to buy out the remainder of its franchise.<ref>[http://www.oft.gov.uk/OFTwork/mergers/mergers_fta/mergers_fta_advice/govia Proposed acquisition by Govia Limited of Connex South Central Limited] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120529071252/http://www.oft.gov.uk/OFTwork/mergers/mergers_fta/mergers_fta_advice/govia|date=29 May 2012}} Office of Fair Trading 16 August 2001</ref><ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20011021172522/http://www.go-ahead.com/Press/2001releases/pressaugustb2001.htm |archive-date=21 October 2001 |url = http://www.go-ahead.com/Press/2001releases/pressaugustb2001.htm |title = Completion of Acquisition of South Central Franchise |publisher = Go-Ahead |date = 28 August 2001}}</ref>

====Failed takeover and operations in Sweden====
During July 2000, French government owned [[Caisse des Dépts-Développement]] (C3D) submitted a bid to purchase Go-Ahead; this offer, which was valued at £326 million, was promptly rejected by the company. A [[hostile takeover]] bid was issued by C3D one month later; it was declared to be "unwelcome" by Go-Ahead chairman Sir Frederick Holliday.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/7132169.go-ahead-says-non-french-takeover/ |title = Go-Ahead says 'non' to French takeover |publisher = henorthernecho.co.uk |date = 24 August 2000}}</ref> Go-Ahead pledged to fight for its independence and promoted its expansion plans to shareholders to persuade them to back the existing management team. C3D sought to integrate Go-Ahead with its [[Transdev S.A.]] bus and light rail operator.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/goahead-dismisses-pound-326m-hostile-french-bid-711882.html |title = Go-Ahead dismisses £326m hostile French bid |work = The Independent |first = Jake |last = Lloyd-Smith |date = 25 August 2000}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.theguardian.com/business/2000/aug/27/theobserver.observerbusiness |title = Go-ahead says go away to French bidders |publisher = theguardian.com |first = Joanna |last = Walters |date = 27 August 2000}}</ref> In October 2000, C3D's takeover effort came to nought.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.thetimes.com/business-money/companies/article/c3d-set-to-raise-bid-for-go-ahead-gtkzddwxhs3 |title = C3D set to raise bid for Go Ahead |first = Mark |last = Court |website = [[The Times]] |date = 11 October 2000}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4470138/Go-Ahead-dives-as-hostile-bid-fizzles-out.html |title = Go-Ahead dives as hostile bid fizzles out |publisher = [[The Daily Telegraph]] |date = 26 October 2000}}</ref>

Go-Ahead entered into two joint ventures with [[Keolis|VIA-GTI]] and [[BK Tåg]] to operate rail services in Sweden. Go-Ahead had a 39% stake in City Pendeln AB which was to operate the Citypendeln commuter rail business in [[Stockholm]]. Go-Ahead also had a 29% stake in Sydvasten AB which operated rail services between [[Gothenburg]] and [[Malmö]]. Go-Ahead decided to exit from both ventures in May 2000.<ref name="AnnualReport2000" /><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=19 May 2000 |title=Withdrawal from joint ventures in railways in Sweden |url=http://www.investegate.co.uk/article.aspx?id=200005191404529053K |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130801031948/http://www.investegate.co.uk/article.aspx?id=200005191404529053K |archive-date=1 August 2013 |website=Investegate |publisher=The Go-Ahead Group |via=Internet Archive}}</ref>

Wycombe Bus Company was sold to [[Arriva Shires & Essex|Arriva]] in December 2000.<ref name="AnnualResults2001" />

==== Expansion into the Midlands and the South ====
In August 2003, the [[Wilts & Dorset]] bus business was purchased.<ref name="AnnualReport2003">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2003pres/ar2003.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 28 June 2003] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123170250/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/archive_pres/2003pres/ar2003.pdf|date=23 November 2012}} Go-Ahead Group</ref> In June 2005 [[Bluestar (bus company)|Solent Blue Line]] and [[Southern Vectis]] were purchased.<ref name="Annualreport2005" /> In September 2005, the [[Lewes]] and [[Seaford, East Sussex|Seaford]] operations of [[Stagecoach South]] were acquired and integrated into the [[Brighton & Hove (bus company)|Brighton & Hove]] business.<ref name="AnnualReport2006">[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2006pres/ar2006/ar2006.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 1 July 2006] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123173356/http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2006pres/ar2006/ar2006.pdf |date=23 November 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref>

During December 2005, Go-Ahead purchased The Birmingham Coach Company, which operated express coaches under contract for [[National Express Coaches|National Express]] and local bus services in the West Midlands under the [[Diamond West Midlands|Diamond Bus]] name.<ref name="times" /><ref name="AnnualReport2006" /> Go-Ahead had been known for some time to be keen to begin operating in the area. In February 2006, another operator in the West Midlands, [[Probus Management]], trading as [[People's Express]], was purchased.<ref name="times" /><ref name="AnnualReport2006" />

In August 2006, the Birmingham Coach Company (trading as Diamond Bus) and Probus operations were regrouped under the [[Go West Midlands]] Limited legal entity, with the bus operations branded as Diamond in the West Midlands.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.reddibus.com/Diamond%20Bus%20-%20Introduction.htm |title=Diamond Bus Introduction |publisher=Reddibus |access-date=21 April 2017 |archive-date=23 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223065130/http://reddibus.com/Diamond%20Bus%20-%20Introduction.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> In February 2006, the Hants & Dorset Trim bus refurbishment business was purchased.<ref name="AnnualReport2006" /> In April 2006, the [[Govia]] joint venture commenced operating the [[South Eastern franchise]] as [[Southeastern (train operating company 2006–2021)|Southeastern]].<ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120210042323/http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/stock-market-statement-passenger-franchise-integrated-kent |archive-date=10 February 2012 |url = http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/stock-market-statement-passenger-franchise-integrated-kent |title = Department for Transport announces integrated Kent franchise |publisher = [[Department for Transport]] |date = 30 January 2006}}</ref>

During September 2006, [[Docklands Buses]] was acquired and integrated into [[Go-Ahead London]], followed in October 2006 by [[Marchwood Motorways]] which was integrated into [[Go South Coast]].<ref name=AnnualReport2007>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2007pres/ar2007/ar2007.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 30 June 2007] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123174649/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2007pres/ar2007/ar2007.pdf |date=23 November 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=1066&categoryid=0 |title=Go-Ahead purchases Marchwood Motorways |date=26 October 2006 |publisher=Bus & Coach Professional |access-date=9 October 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020222911/http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=1066&categoryid=0 |archive-date=20 October 2013 }}</ref>

In June 2007, [[Blue Triangle]] was acquired and integrated into Go-Ahead London.<ref name=AnnualReport2007/> In September 2007, Northumbria Coaches was purchased and integrated into [[Go North East]], followed by Stanley Buses (the bus service subsidiary of Stanley Taxis) in October 2007, and Redby Buses in January 2008.<ref name=AnnualReport2008>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2008pres/investor/ar2008.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 28 June 2008] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123173024/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2008pres/investor/ar2008.pdf |date=23 November 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref> In November 2007, [[Govia]] began operating the [[London Midland]] rail franchise.<ref name=AnnualReport2007/> In December 2007, the [[Orpington]] services of [[First London]] were acquired.<ref name=AnnualReport2008/>

In February 2008, Go-Ahead sold [[Go West Midlands]] to [[Rotala]]'s [[Diamond West Midlands|Central Connect]], two years after purchasing the company.<ref name=AnnualReport2008/> In June 2008, the [[Gatwick Express]] rail service was incorporated into [[Southern (train operating company)|Southern]].<ref name=AnnualReport2008/> In October 2009, [[East Thames Buses]] was acquired and integrated into [[Go-Ahead London]] as well as the Horsham operations of [[Arriva Southern Counties]] that were integrated into [[Metrobus (South East England)|Metrobus]].<ref name=HalfYearReport2010>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2010pres/half_year2010/halfyr_report2010.pdf Go-Ahead half year Report 2 January 2010] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131015000224/http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/presentations/2010pres/half_year2010/halfyr_report2010.pdf |date=15 October 2013 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref> In December 2009, [[Plymouth Citybus]] was purchased from [[Plymouth City Council]].<ref name=HalfYearReport2010/> In March 2010, [[Konectbus]] in Norfolk was purchased as well as the [[Hexham]] operations of [[Arriva North East]] and integrated into [[Go North East]].<ref name="AnnualReport2011" />

====American operations====
In August 2010, Go-Ahead America, a joint venture with Cook Illinois in which Go-Ahead held a 50% stake, commenced operating a yellow school bus contract in [[St Louis]], [[Missouri]].<ref name="AnnualReport2011" /> In July 2014, Go-Ahead exited the United States following the loss of its yellow bus contract.<ref>[http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=8444&categoryid=1 Go-Ahead quits USA] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140524045558/http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=8444&categoryid=1|date=24 May 2014}} ''Bus & Coach Professional'' 23 May 2014</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=9 May 2014 |title=School bus contractor closing St. Louis operations |url=http://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/news/2014/05/09/school-bus-contractor-closing-st-louis-operations.html?page=all |access-date=28 March 2015 |work=St. Louis Business Journal}}</ref>

=== Since 2011 ===
====Acquisitions====
[[File:20190918-Oxford-Bus-839.jpg|thumb|An [[Oxford Bus Company]] Mercedes Citaro in Wolvercote]]
In May 2011, Go-Ahead acquired [[Thames Travel]] in [[South Oxfordshire]].<ref name=AnnualReport2011/> Acquisitions in 2012 were [[Carousel Buses]] (March) integrated into [[Oxford Bus Company]], Essex-based [[Hedingham & Chambers|Hedingham]] (March), the [[Northumberland Park, London|Northumberland Park]]-based operations of [[First London]] (March), [[Anglian Bus]] (April) in [[Norfolk]] and [[Suffolk]], and [[Hedingham & Chambers|HC Chambers & Son]], Suffolk (June) (immediately operationally merged with Hedingham).<ref>[http://www.go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/result_centre/2012result/ar-2012-v2.pdf Go-Ahead Annual Report 30 June 2012] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012223148/http://go-ahead.com/~/media/Files/G/Go-Ahead/ir/result_centre/2012result/ar-2012-v2.pdf |date=12 October 2012 }} Go-Ahead Group</ref>

In March 2012, the [[Department for Transport]] announced that Go-Ahead, along with [[Abellio (transport company)|Abellio]], [[FirstGroup]], [[MTR Corporation|MTR]], and [[Stagecoach Group|Stagecoach]], had been shortlisted for the newly created [[Thameslink, Southern & Great Northern franchise]].<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-press-20120329// |title = Bidders to oversee improvements on rail franchises announced |publisher = Department for Transport |date = 29 March 2012}}</ref> During May 2014, Govia was awarded the new franchise.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2014/05/23-firstgroup-chosen-for-new-thameslink.html |title=Govia chosen for new Thameslink contract |publisher=Railnews |date=23 May 2014 |access-date=23 May 2014}}</ref><ref name="newTLrtm">{{cite news |url=http://www.railtechnologymagazine.com/Rail-News/govia-wins-tsgn-franchise-beating-firstgroup |title=Govia wins TSGN franchise, beating FirstGroup |work=Rail Technology Magazine |publisher=Cognitive Publishing |date=23 May 2014 |access-date=23 May 2014}}</ref> This franchise is unusual as a management contract where fare income does not go to GTR, which is simply paid a fee for operating the service, so GTR carries less revenue risk. This form of franchise was chosen because of long-term engineering works anticipated around London, which would be a significant challenge to organise within the normal form of franchise.<ref name="argus-20160618">{{cite news |url=http://www.theargus.co.uk/news/14565751.Fines_issued_to_rail_provider_GTR_for_poor_performance_slammed/ |title=Fines issued to rail provider GTR for poor performance slammed |author=Ben James |newspaper=The Argus |date=18 June 2016 |access-date=20 June 2016}}</ref><ref name="guardian-20160708">{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2016/jul/08/all-aboard-southern-trains-disaster-commuters-caught-in-war-on-rails |title=All aboard the Southern chaos train: the commuters caught in a war on rails |first=Simon |last=Usborne |newspaper=The Guardian |date=8 July 2016 |access-date=8 July 2016}}</ref>

====Expansion into Europe and Singapore====
[[File:Volvo B9TL SG5053C.jpg|thumb|[[Volvo B9TL]] in Singapore in June 2016]]
During November 2015, [[Go-Ahead Singapore]] was awarded a contract to operate 25 bus services in Singapore previously operated by [[SBS Transit]] out of [[Loyang Bus Depot]], which commenced on 4 September 2016.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/british-operator-go-ahead-group-wins-second-government-bus-contract |title= British operator Go-Ahead Group wins second Government bus contact |work= [[The Straits Times]] |date= 23 November 2015 |access-date= 23 November 2015}}</ref> In the same month, [[Go-Ahead Germany]] were awarded two rail contracts in [[Stuttgart]], Germany. The contracts commenced in 2019{{ndash}}2020.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/passenger/single-view/view/go-ahead-and-abellio-win-stuttgart-passenger-operating-contracts.html |title = Go-Ahead and Abellio win Stuttgart passenger operating contracts |publisher = [[Railway Gazette International]] |date = 17 November 2015 |access-date = 26 November 2015 |archive-date = 18 June 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180618044003/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/passenger/single-view/view/go-ahead-and-abellio-win-stuttgart-passenger-operating-contracts.html |url-status = dead }}</ref>

In August 2017, Go-Ahead won a tender to run 24 routes in [[Ireland]] previously operated by [[Dublin Bus]]. [[Go-Ahead Ireland]] commenced the contract with the [[National Transport Authority (Ireland)|National Transport Authority]] to operate these routes on 9 September 2018.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.nationaltransport.ie/news/nta-announces-go-ahead-preferred-bidder-bus-routes-dublin/ |title = NAT Announces Go-Ahead as preferred bidder for bus routes in Dublin |publisher = National Transport Authority |date = 10 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.goaheadlondon.com/news/post/go-ahead-group-awarded-outer-dublin-metropolitan-area-bus-contract |title = Go-Ahead Group awarded Outer Dublin, Metropolitan Area bus contract |publisher = Go-Ahead London |date = August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/dublin-bus-loses-control-of-24-bus-routes-serving-suburbs-1.3182303 |title = Dublin Bus loses control of 24 bus routes serving suburbs |publisher = [[The Irish Times]] |date = 10 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.go-aheaddublin.ie/newsroom-2/go-ahead-ireland-opens-new-depot-dublin/ |title = Go-Ahead Ireland Opens New Depot in Dublin |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712214518/https://www.go-aheaddublin.ie/newsroom-2/go-ahead-ireland-opens-new-depot-dublin/ |archive-date=12 July 2018 |publisher = Go-Ahead Ireland |date = 9 July 2018}}</ref> In June 2018, [[East Yorkshire (bus company)|East Yorkshire Motor Services]] was purchased with over 300 buses.<ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180620023458/https://www.eyms.co.uk/bus-services/news-item?id=1507 |archive-date=20 June 2018 |url = https://www.eyms.co.uk/bus-services/news-item?id=1507 |title = Go-Ahead Welcomes East Yorkshire Motor Services |publisher = East Yorkshire Motor Services |date = 18 June 2018}}</ref> In January 2019, Go-Ahead Ireland commenced operating a further six routes between [[Dublin]] and its outlying commuter towns, previously operated by [[Bus Éireann]].<ref>{{cite magazine |title = Go-Ahead awarded Dublin Commuter Routes |magazine = [[Coach & Bus Week]] |issue = 1334 |date = 20 March 2018 |page = 8}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180611101107/http://www.route-one.net/articles/Contract_win/Go_Ahead_wins_second_Dublin_contract |archive-date=11 June 2018 |url = http://www.route-one.net/articles/Contract_win/Go_Ahead_wins_second_Dublin_contract |title = Go-Ahead wins second Dublin contract |publisher = Route One |date = 20 March 2018}}</ref> By 2022, the National Transport Authority indicated that it was not satisfied with Go-Ahead's performance, but extended the contract to October 2024 on the basis that it would be too disruptive to bus services to re-tender the contract.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kelly |first1=Olivia |title=Go-Ahead bus contract extended despite complaints and dissatisfaction with service |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/transport/2022/10/31/go-ahead-bus-contract-extended-despite-complaints-and-dissatisfaction-with-service/ |access-date=6 February 2025 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en}}</ref> Go-Ahead has been penalised by the National Transport Authority for failing to meet minimum performance standards in 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Burns |first1=Sarah |title=Bus operators hit with €5m in penalties amid fresh complaints over 'ghost buses' |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/transport/2025/02/06/bus-operators-hit-with-5m-in-penalties-amid-fresh-complaints-over-ghost-buses/ |access-date=6 February 2025 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Kelly |first1=Olivia |title=Go-Ahead bus contract extended despite complaints and dissatisfaction with service |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/transport/2022/10/31/go-ahead-bus-contract-extended-despite-complaints-and-dissatisfaction-with-service/ |access-date=6 February 2025 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Holland |first1=Kitty |title=Go-Ahead to be fined for not delivering adequate bus service |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/go-ahead-to-be-fined-for-not-delivering-adequate-bus-service-1.3958652 |access-date=6 February 2025 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Gleeson |first1=Colin |title=Bus operator Go-Ahead hit with fines of more than €3m last year |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/06/27/bus-operator-go-ahead-hit-with-fines-worth-more-than-3m-last-year/ |access-date=6 February 2025 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en}}</ref>

During October 2018, Go-Ahead won a tender to run the Oslo south package, consisting of three routes previously operated by NSB. [[Go-Ahead Nordic]] commenced the contract with the [[Norwegian Railway Directorate]] to operate these routes in December 2019.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.go-ahead.com/en/media/news/2018/go-ahead-wins-first-rail-contract-to-be-awarded-in-norway.html/ |title = Go-Ahead wins first rail contract to be awarded in Norway |publisher = Go-Ahead Group |date = 17 October 2018}}</ref>

====Manchester and Cornwall====
In February 2019, Go-Ahead announced it would buy [[First Greater Manchester]]'s [[Cheetham Hill]] depot with 163 buses and brand it [[Go North West]].<ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190219223914/https://www.go-ahead.com/en/media/news/2019/go-ahead-agrees-terms-with-firstgroup-to-purchase-manchester-bus.htmll |archive-date=19 February 2019 |url = https://www.go-ahead.com/en/media/news/2019/go-ahead-agrees-terms-with-firstgroup-to-purchase-manchester-bus.htmll |title = Go-Ahead agrees terms with FirstGroup to purchase Manchester bus depot |publisher = Go-Ahead Group |date = 19 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190219224112/https://cbwmagazine.com/first-manchester-sells-queens-road-depot-to-go-ahead/ |archive-date=19 February 2019 |url = https://cbwmagazine.com/first-manchester-sells-queens-road-depot-to-go-ahead/ |title = First Manchester sells Queens Road depot to Go-Ahead |publisher = Coach & Bus Week |date = 19 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/first-manchester-cheetham-hill-depot-15851278 |title = First Manchester are selling 160 buses and their Cheetham Hill depot for £11.2 million |publisher = [[Manchester Evening News]] |date = 19 February 2019}}</ref>

During March 2020, [[Go Cornwall Bus]] partnered with [[Cornwall Council]] and local operators to form a new [[Transport for Cornwall]] brand, with plans calling for an additional 130 vehicles.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://cbwmagazine.com/transport-for-cornwall-prepares-to-begin-operations/ |title=Transport for Cornwall prepares to begin operations |last=Jackson |first=Peter |date=17 March 2020 |website=Coach & Bus Week |language=en-GB |access-date=17 April 2020}}</ref>

====Termination of Southeastern rail franchise ====
On 28 September 2021, the Department for Transport announced it would terminate the [[Southeastern (train operating company 2006–2021)|Southeastern franchise]] the following month after the discovery of financial misconduct.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Holton |first1=Kate |last2=Young |first2=Sarah |date=28 September 2021 |title=UK seizes control of Go-Ahead's Southeastern rail franchise |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-take-control-go-aheads-southeastern-rail-franchise-2021-09-28/ |access-date=28 September 2021}}</ref> Southeastern had not declared over £25{{nbsp}}million that should have been repaid to the government in the period since 2014. Go-Ahead's Chief Financial Officer resigned over this matter.<ref name=guardian-20210928>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/sep/28/government-to-take-over-southeastern-after-serious-breach-of-franchise |title=Government to take over Southeastern after 'serious' breach of franchise |last1=Topham |first1=Gwyn |last2=Kollewe |first2=Julia |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=28 September 2021 |access-date=28 September 2021}}</ref>

On 9 December 2021, the company announced that its auditors needed more time to consider the implications of the misconduct and potential fines from the Department for Transport (DfT). Consequently, the annual results would not be ready at the end of the company's financial year on 2 January 2022, which would oblige the company to request suspension of trading in its shares. The share price fell by about 15% on the day of the announcement.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Willems |first1=Michael |last2=Russell-Jones |first2=Lily |date=9 December 2021 |title=Train operator Go-Ahead admits to 'serious errors and failures' as shares suspended |url=https://www.cityam.com/breaking-train-operator-go-ahead-admits-to-serious-errors-and-failures-in-way-it-ran-southeastern-rail-franchise/ |access-date=10 December 2021 |website=CityAM |language=en-GB}}</ref>

On 24 February 2022, Go-Ahead published their delayed 2020{{ndash}}21 results, and announced the outcome of investigations into the termination of the franchise. The review found that "serious errors had been made” since 2006, with the expected cost to the company to be over £80{{nbsp}}million.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=24 February 2022 |title=Southeastern: Losing rail franchise to cost firm £81.3m |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-kent-60505329 |access-date=24 February 2022}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Topham |first=Gwyn |date=24 February 2022 |title=Dramatic increase to £80m in cost of Southeastern train accounting scandal |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/feb/24/dramatic-increase-to-80m-in-cost-of-southeastern-train-accounting-scandal |access-date=24 February 2022 |website=The Guardian |language=en}}</ref> The amount owed to the DfT was increased to £51.3{{nbsp}}million, with errors dating back to 2006.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> Go-Ahead also stated that they expect to have to pay a fine to the DfT, setting aside up to £30{{nbsp}}million for this.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Georgiadis |first=Philip |date=24 February 2022 |title=Go-Ahead sets aside £30mn for Southeastern rail penalty |work=Financial Times |url=https://www.ft.com/content/c2f4069f-e039-4d57-b87e-17b4c1043db2 |access-date=24 February 2022}}</ref> Go-Ahead also stated that they may also owe DfT an additional £21.3{{nbsp}}million, related to a dispute over profit sharing.<ref name=":1" />

====Takeover====
On 13 June 2022, a consortium of Australia's [[Kinetic Group]] (51%) and Spain's [[Globalvia]] (49%) launched a takeover bid of Go-Ahead, initially valuing the company at £647 million.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Georgiadis |first1=Philip |last2=Dunkley |first2=Emma |date=14 June 2022 |title=Go-Ahead accepts £650mn bid from group led by Australian bus operator |language=en |work=[[Financial Times]] |url=https://www.ft.com/content/9630a750-7661-4d0f-87b3-e15eec19c739 |access-date=14 June 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220817103803/https://www.globalvia.com/en/noticia/we-submit-together-with-kinetic-an-offer-for-the-acquisition-of-go-ahead/ |archive-date=17 August 2022 |url = https://www.globalvia.com/en/noticia/we-submit-together-with-kinetic-an-offer-for-the-acquisition-of-go-ahead/ |title = We submit together with Kinetic an offer for the acquisition of Go-Ahead |publisher = [[Globalvia]] |date = 14 June 2022}}</ref> Two months later, the offer was increased to £669 million.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/spanish-goahead-group-b1016586.html |title = Go-Ahead suitors raise takeover offer by £22m |publisher = standard.co.uk |first = Anna |last = Wise |date = 4 August 2022}}</ref> Shortly thereafter, 78.6%  of Go-Ahead's shareholders voted to accept the offer.<ref>{{cite web |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220817101153/https://www.londonstockexchange.com/news-article/GOG/result-of-meeting/15587872 |archive-date=17 August 2022 |url = https://www.londonstockexchange.com/news-article/GOG/result-of-meeting/15587872 |title = Result of Meeting |publisher = Go-Ahead Group |date = 16 August 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.business-live.co.uk/ports-logistics/go-ahead-shareholders-approve-669m-24772849 |title = Go-Ahead shareholders approve £669m takeover by international joint venture |publisher = business-live.co.uk |first = Tom |last = Keighley |date = 16 August 2022}}</ref>

====Expansion and changes====
During January 2023, it was announced that Go-Ahead was expanding into the Australian market via the [[U-Go Mobility]] joint venture with the engineering company [[UGL (company)|UFL]]; this venture had been recently awarded a contract by Transport New South Wales to operate buses in [[Sydney]].<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.route-one.net/news/go-ahead-group-enters-australia-bus-market-with-jv/ |title = Go-Ahead Group enters Australia bus market with JV |publisher = route-one.net |date = 3 January 2023}}</ref> In June 2023, Go-Ahead bought Pulhams Coaches, expanding its presence into the [[Cotswolds]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk/go-ahead-expands-into-the-cotswolds-by-buying-pulham-sons/ |title=Go-Ahead expands into the Cotswolds by buying Pulham & Sons |date=8 June 2023 |newspaper=Gloucester News Centre |access-date=8 June 2023}}</ref>

In mid 2023, Go-Ahead Group announced that it was procuring a new fleet of [[hydrogen fuel cell]] buses to serve routes around [[Gatwick Airport]], [[Crawley]], and [[Horley]]; comprising 54 vehicles, it will be one of the largest hydrogen bus fleets present in the UK.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.intelligenttransport.com/transport-news/147909/go-ahead-group-launches-uks-largest-hydrogen-bus-fleet/ |title = Go-Ahead Group launches UK's largest hydrogen bus fleet |publisher = intelligenttransport.com |date = 30 June 2023}}</ref> The company has also invested £30 million on establishing a liquid hydrogen refuelling station, the first such facility serving buses in Europe.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.climateaction.org/news/go-ahead-group-invest-30m-into-a-hydrogen-bus-fleet-creating-greener-and-cl |title = Go-Ahead Group invest £30m into a hydrogen bus fleet, creating greener and cleaner bus travel |publisher = climateaction.org |date = 4 July 2023}}</ref>

==== Sale of German rail division ====
On 12 October 2023, the company entered into an agreement to sell [[Go-Ahead Germany]] to [[ÖBB]]; the sales process was completed on 1 February 2024, after approvals have been obtained from various international authorities under competition law.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ÖBB & Go-Ahead Germany form a Partnership for German local transport |url=https://presse-oebb.at/News_Detail.aspx?id=187145&menueid=29803&l=english |access-date=2023-10-12 |website=ÖBB Newsroom |language=en}}</ref>

==== Stockholm Metro ====
In January 2024, [[Connecting Stockholm]], which is majority-owned by Go-Ahead (55%) was awarded the operation contract for the [[Stockholm Metro]] system. The contract will be worth approximately [[Swedish krona|SEK]] 40 billion over its 11 year period and will commence in November 2025, taking over from the present operator, [[MTR Corporation|MTR]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-01-25 |title=Efter fiasko i England – nu tar hårt kritiserat bolag över Stockholms tunnelbana |url=https://www.svt.se/nyheter/lokalt/stockholm/efter-fiasko-i-england-nu-tar-hart-kritiserat-bolag-over-stockholms-tunnelbana |access-date=2024-01-25 |work=SVT Nyheter |language=sv}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-24 |title=Connecting Stockholm AB vinner tunnelbaneupphandling |url=https://www.regionstockholm.se/verksamhet/kollektivtrafik/nyheter/2024/01/connecting-stockholm-ab-vinner-tunnelbaneupphandling/ |access-date=2024-01-25 |website=Region Stockholm |language=sv}}</ref>

==Operations==
The company's operations include:<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.go-ahead.com/who-we-are |title=Who we are |publisher=Go-Ahead Group |access-date=3 March 2020}}</ref>

===Bus operations===
;United Kingdom

* [[Brighton & Hove (bus company)|Brighton & Hove]] – bus operations in [[Brighton]] and [[Hove]], acquired in November 1993
**[[Metrobus (South East England)|Metrobus]] – bus operation in [[Crawley]], acquired in September 1999, London operations transferred to [[London General]] in April 2014
**Eastbourne Sightseeing – city sightseeing bus operations in Eastbourne, acquired in February 2024
* [[Go-Ahead London]]
**[[Blue Triangle]] – bus operations in east London, acquired on 29 June 2007
**[[Docklands Buses]] – bus operations in east London, acquired in September 2006
**[[London Central]] – bus operations in south London, acquired in October 1994
**[[London General]] – bus operations in London, acquired in June 1996, acquired [[Metrobus (South East England)|Metrobus]]' London routes in April 2014
* [[Go North East]] – bus operations in [[North East England]] and the founding company of the Go-Ahead Group in 1987
* [[East Yorkshire (bus company)|East Yorkshire]] – bus operations in [[Yorkshire and the Humber]], acquired in June 2018
**Procters Coaches – coach operations in [[North Yorkshire]], acquired in May 2024
**Compass Royston – coach operations in [[Stockton-on-Tees]], [[Middlesbrough]] and [[Teesside]], acquired in May 2024
**Esk Valley – coach operations in North Yorkshire and [[East Riding of Yorkshire]], acquired in May 2024
**Fourway Coaches – coach operations in [[West Yorkshire]], acquired in May 2024
* [[Go North West]] – bus operations in [[Greater Manchester]], acquired in February 2019
* [[Go South Coast]]
**[[Bluestar (bus company)|Bluestar]] – bus operations in [[Eastleigh]], [[Hythe, Hampshire|Hythe]] and [[Southampton]], acquired in July 2005
**[[Damory]] – bus and coach operations in [[Dorset]], acquired in August 2003
**Excelsior – coach operations in [[Bournemouth]], acquired in October 2016
**[[Morebus]] – bus operations in Bournemouth and [[Poole]] (previously [[Wilts & Dorset]]), acquired in August 2003
**[[Salisbury Reds (bus company)|Salisbury Reds]] – bus operation in [[Salisbury]] and [[Wiltshire]] (previously [[Wilts & Dorset]]), acquired in August 2003
**[[Southern Vectis]] – bus operations on the [[Isle of Wight]], acquired in July 2005
**[[Swindon's Bus Company]] – bus operations in [[Swindon]] (previously Thamesdown Transport), acquired in February 2017 
**[[Tourist Coaches]] – coach operations in Wiltshire, acquired in August 2003
**Unibus – Bournemouth University and Arts University Bournemouth bus services for students and public
**[[Unilink]] – Southampton University bus services for students and public, acquired on 29 September 2008
* Go South West
**Dartline Coaches – bus company in Exeter, acquired in October 2022<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 November 2022 |title=Go South West buys Exeter-based bus company |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-devon-63627895 |access-date=3 February 2023}}</ref>
**[[Plymouth Citybus]] – bus operations in [[Plymouth]], acquired in November 2009
**[[Go Cornwall Bus]] – bus operations in [[Cornwall]], acquired in December 2014
**Go Devon Bus – bus operations in North and Mid Devon, started in October 2022
* [[Go East Anglia]] 
**[[Konectbus]] – bus operations in [[Norfolk]], acquired in March 2010
**[[Hedingham & Chambers]] – bus operations in [[Essex]] & [[Suffolk]], merged from two former operators in 2012.
***Chambers – bus operations in Suffolk, acquired in June 2012
***Hedingham – bus operations in Essex, acquired in March 2012
* Oxford Bus Group
**[[Oxford Bus Company]] – bus operations in [[Oxford]], acquired in March 1994
**[[Thames Travel]] – bus operations in [[South Oxfordshire]] and [[Berkshire]], acquired in May 2011
**[[Carousel Buses]] – bus operations in [[High Wycombe]] and [[Buckinghamshire]], acquired in March 2012
**Tom Tappin – city sightseeing bus operations in Oxford, acquired in December 2017
**Pulhams Coaches – bus & coach operations in [[West Oxfordshire]], [[Gloucestershire]] and [[Cotswolds|the Cotswolds]], acquired in June 2023
***Swanbrook Transport - coach operations in [[Cheltenham]], acquired in November 2024
**Pearces Coaches - coach operations in [[Oxfordshire]], acquired in March 2025

;Singapore
* [[Go-Ahead Singapore]] – bus operations in [[Singapore]], commenced operations September 2016

;Ireland
* [[Go-Ahead Ireland]] – tendered out bus services in Dublin

;Australia
* [[U-Go Mobility]] – a 50:50 joint venture between Go-Ahead and [[UGL (company)|UGL]] in [[Sydney]] that commenced in July 2023.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/go-ahead-joint-venture-to-operate-in-sydney/ |title=Go-Ahead joint venture to operate in Sydney |date=22 December 2022 |newspaper=Bus and Coach Buyer |access-date=23 December 2022}}</ref>

===Current rail franchises===
The company operates the following franchise through [[Govia]], its joint venture with [[Keolis]]:
* [[Govia Thameslink Railway]] – operating under the [[Southern (Govia Thameslink Railway)|Southern]], [[Gatwick Express]], Thameslink and Great Northern brands

The company also operates railway lines internationally:
* [[Go-Ahead Nordic]] – operating the Oslo South package on the [[Arendal Line|Arendal]], [[Jæren Line|Jæren]] and [[Sørlandet Line]]s.

===Previous rail franchises===
* [[Thames Trains]] – October 1996 to March 2004
* [[Thameslink (train operating company 1997–2006)|Thameslink]] – March 1997 to March 2006 (through the Govia joint venture with Keolis)
* [[London Midland]] – November 2007 to December 2017 (Govia)<ref>[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/more-seats-for-rail-passengers-as-nearly-1-billion-is-invested-in-midlands-services More seats for rail passengers as nearly £1 billion is invested in Midlands services] Department for Transport 10 August 2017</ref><ref>[https://www.abellio.com/sites/default/files/downloads/170810_press_release_west_midlands_trains_announced_as_winning_bidder.pdf West Midlands Trains announced as winning bidder for West Midlands franchise] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170810130543/https://www.abellio.com/sites/default/files/downloads/170810_press_release_west_midlands_trains_announced_as_winning_bidder.pdf |date=10 August 2017 }} Abellio 10 August 2017</ref>
* [[Southeastern (train operating company 2006–2021)|Southeastern]] – April 2006 to October 2021 (Govia).<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 March 2020 |title=Critical rail services protected in new deals for GWR and Southeastern |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/critical-rail-services-protected-in-new-deals-for-gwr-and-southeastern |access-date=27 June 2020 |website=GOV.UK |publisher=Department for Transport |language=en}}</ref> Govia was stripped of the franchise after a serious financial breach of the agreement.<ref name="guardian-20210928"/>
=== Previous subsidiaries ===
* [[Go-Ahead Germany]] – operated rail services in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria
*[[Southdown PSV|Southdown Buses]] – previously operated bus services in East Surrey and Kent, acquired on 1 February 2023,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Southdown to join Brighton and Hove Buses owner Go Ahead {{!}} The Argus |url=https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/23292087.amp/ |access-date=3 February 2023 |website=www.theargus.co.uk|date=3 February 2023 }}</ref> ceased operations on 2 September 2023<ref>{{Cite web |title=Southdown is joining the Metrobus family {{!}} Metrobus |url=https://www.metrobus.co.uk/southdown-joining-metrobus-family}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{Official website}}

{{Go-AheadGroup|state=collapsed}}
{{Kinetic Group}}
{{Transport companies in the United Kingdom}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Bus groups in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Companies based in Newcastle upon Tyne]]
[[Category:Companies formerly listed on the London Stock Exchange]]
[[Category:Go-Ahead Group companies]]
[[Category:Kinetic Group companies]]
[[Category:Transport companies established in 1987]]
[[Category:Transport operators of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:1987 establishments in England]]
[[Category:1994 initial public offerings]]