TRANSDEV Blazefield – which operates Keighley Bus Company – is in the running for a national award.
The firm is a finalist in the prestigious annual routeone Awards, which recognise excellence in the bus and coach industry.
More than 70 operators and individuals are competing for accolades, across 15 categories.
Transdev Blazefield is amongst four companies vying for the Best Use of Technology honour, which is for firms with over 150 vehicles.
It is up against the Newcastle-based Go-Ahead Group, Leicester Bus Partnership and National Express West Midlands.
The shortlist of finalists was drawn up by a panel of senior industry figures, after operators were initially nominated by their peers.
Winners will be announced at a black-tie awards evening at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on November 8.
Around 800 industry professionals will attend the glittering event, which also includes a three-course dinner and entertainment.
Helen Conway, event director with organiser Diversified Communications, says: “The coveted routeone Awards – now in their 17th year – are unique in the industry, rewarding people and operators for their exemplary achievements and bringing the sector together to celebrate.
“All the entrants were nominated for an award before a panel of industry experts carefully reviewed each one, so to be shortlisted is a huge achievement in itself. We will find out in November who has been chosen as the very best in the business.”
Other categories in the awards include Rising Star, Manager of the Year, Outstanding Customer Experience, Engineer of the Year, Coach Tourism Programme of the Year, Environment, and Coach and Bus Operator of the Year, and there is a special recognition award.
Ticketer, a smart ticketing systems supplier, is a headline partner in the initiative.
Transdev Blazefield’s technological innovations include a popular mobile app, which provides customers with up-to-date information including live departure and bus tracking data, plus details of on-bus features and current capacity.
“The Transdev Go app has industry-leading features that make travelling with us much smoother and more enjoyable,” said a spokesperson.
“It couldn’t be easier to pick up and go, giving you access to mobile tickets, timetables and bus tracking.
“It’s free to download from the App and Google Play stores.
“We also have an expanding range of electronic and mobile ticketing provision.
“We’ve built an industry-leading reputation for innovation, deploying cutting-edge technology to achieve continued business growth.
“And we are transforming the engineering function through our Power Up programme to deliver full-fleet digital management, including electronic vehicle inspections, supported by investment in driver training and welfare facilities.”
