Go-Ahead contributes £6.4 billion to the UK economy and supports 86,900 jobs

Go-Ahead delivered a £6.4 billion contribution to the UK economy in 2025, supporting almost 86,900 jobs nationwide, according to a new report by Oxford Economics.

The report highlights the significant economic impact and social value generated by one of the UK’s largest public transport operators, from driving growth and employment to connecting millions of people to work, education and essential services. The findings highlight the scale and reach of Go-Ahead’s contribution, including:

Go-Ahead operates bus and rail services that are relied upon by millions of customers every day, playing a vital role in keeping communities connected across the country.

In the UK it operates over 6,000 buses serving communities from the Isle of Wight to the North East including the largest fleet of zero-emission buses.

Its rail operations include Govia Thameslink Railway which comprises of Southern Railway, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express services. Through GTS, a joint venture with Tokyo Metro and Sumitomo Corporation, it also operates the Elizabeth line, on behalf of Transport for London.

Go-Ahead continues to invest in the customer experience, through new technology and world-class operations control centres. In the recent Your Bus Journey survey, Go-Ahead bus operators scored an average of 86% in customer satisfaction, reflecting a focus on delivering reliable, accessible and welcoming services.

Investment in people remains a key priority. Recognised by the Department for Education as a leading employer for apprenticeships for three consecutive, Go-Ahead ranked 12th in Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2025 and 28th in The Sunday Times rankings.

Last year Go-Ahead launched a multi-million-pound engineering training academy and a new apprenticeship programme, while continuing to develop the skills and knowledge of Go-Ahead’s more than 900 engineers across the UK & Ireland, to support the transition to zero-emission technology. This reflects a long-term commitment to developing talent, creating opportunities and building a workforce that reflects the communities Go-Ahead serves.

The full report can be accessed here.

Patrick Verwer, Chief Executive Officer, Rail, Go-Ahead Group, said: “We are proud to see the impact of Go-Ahead as a driver of local growth showcased in this report, putting money into communities and helping high streets to thrive. Alongside the economic impact we generate to the jobs we support, our people take real pride in delivering for our customers and we know the vital role we play in keeping the country moving every day. Whether it’s a commute to work, school or a visit to family and friends, we understand how important these journeys are, and we remain focused on delivering reliable services and investing in the future of transport.”