Stagecoach Manchester

[Mayneway]

RE: Stagecoach Manchester

(18/06/2014 11:53)Owl Wrote:  Indeed, it is difficult to understand why the CMA became involved in this case. Even the addition of JPT routes to Stagecoach's existing routes does not really provide Stagecoach with anything like the grip that First has in this area. The only potential issue would be the addition of the 118 to the 112 on Moston Lane, but even then First run the 81 down there every 10 minutes, so there is plenty of competition.

It's not as if Stagecoach drove JPT off the road - they did a public service by picking up the mess that JPT left when they imploded.

I agree with you regarding the competition aspect but I do think it's right that the deal itself is looked into. Don't forget Stagecoach have never shown any interest in JPT and waited till JPT were on their knee's before they allegedly made them an offer, plus the surroundings of the whole deal were unusual. It seemed to be kept quiet until it had been signed and sealed - all very different to previous takeovers.

The thing that annoys me is that the CMA seemed to have failed to consider the circumstances of the situation. Imposing the condition that JPT vehicles must be used where possible on former JPT services is near impossible considering the state of the vehicles.
During the Preston bus fiasco the OFT claimed it was in the best interests of the passenger that Stagecoach sold PB, so bearing that in mind surly the passenger is much better off in Middleton with the services being run by Stagecoach and not the shambles that was JPT.