Shares of Aberdeen-headquartered bus and rail giant FirstGroup plc rose about 9% after it published results for the 52 weeks to March 28 and announced a further £100 million buyback of shares.

First Bus is one of the largest bus operators in the UK, serving more than 20% of the population in the UK with a fleet of 6,000 buses.

First Rail operates a fleet of 320 trains through two DfT contracted train operating companies — WCP (incorporating Avanti West Coast and West Coast Partnership Development) and GWR, and three open access routes (Hull Trains and two under the Lumo brand).

FirstGroup said its “adjusted revenue” rose 25% to £1.716 billion in the year — with “revenue from continuing operations” falling to £4.751 billion from £5.233 billion “mainly due to the transfer of SWR to the DfTO in May 2025, partially offset by the growth in First Bus.”

Profit before tax slipped to £158.8 million from £169.6 million in the prior year.

Dividend per share rose to 7.2p from 6.5p.

FirstGroup CEO Graham Sutherland said: “Our strong performance in FY 2026 against significant headwinds has reinforced our track record for delivery and shareholder returns.

“Looking ahead, our focus on operational excellence and our diverse portfolio, robust asset base and cash generative businesses will enable continued growth and scope for further, material returns.

“As the UK bus and rail industries evolve over the coming years, we will continue to position the Group as a leading UK transport company with the commitment, expertise, scale and financial strength to build active, long-term partnerships to create better transport services.”