Keolis expands into the transit market in the United States with acquisition of Tectrans

Keolis America Inc., the United States subsidiary of Keolis, announces the acquisition of Tectrans, Inc., a public transit operator headquartered in California.

Tectrans, Inc., which will be renamed "Keolis Transit America Inc.," provides fixed-route and paratransit transportation, as well as airport, college and corporate shuttles, taxi operations and other transit-related services, such as call center management. The company, which has been providing transportation solutions since the 1940s, operates more than 100 contracts in the United States, 1,525 vehicles and employs 1,400 staff. Following this acquisition Keolis will generate annual revenue of nearly USD 200m in North America.

Arnaud Van Troeyen, Keolis Executive Vice-President International Development said "this acquisition is an important step for Keolis, as it allows us to enter the public transit market and provides us with an outstanding platform for future growth in the US, which are at the heart of our priorities for our international expansion. We are convinced this will be a successful partnership, combining our core business expertise of the bus and coach sector and Tectrans' knowledge of the local markets."

Steve Townsend, President of Keolis America Inc. explained that "the acquisition did not happen overnight. We have been watching Tectrans and its development over the past few years. It's a very successful company and has built a strong management team. I am sure the business will complement our already successful commuter rail business."

Michael Griffus, Tectrans Inc.'s President and Chief Executive Officer added that "the management team and I see a good cultural fit with Keolis. Both companies are committed to providing safe, customer-focused and responsible public transportation solutions, as well as empowering employees by promoting diversity and teamwork, providing opportunities for growth, and treating each other with dignity and respect. We are excited about the future of Keolis Transit America Inc. Having a financially and technically strong parent company will facilitate our growth."

The Keolis Group develops tailor-made mobility solutions to suit individual local requirements. The Keolis Group is a market leader in France and a major player on the public transport spectrum in Europe and worldwide. Established in 12 countries, the Group generated revenue of 4.1 billion euros in 2010 and employs 47,200 people.

Tectrans, Inc. is an award-winning provider of contracted transportation management and operations solutions serving more than 80 clients across the United States. The company is also a provider of on-demand and paratransit taxi transportation. Tectrans was included in the 2011 Inc. Magazine 500 | 5000 as one of the fastest growing private companies in America.