McGill’s Group has been shortlisted for four major accolades at this year’s Scottish Transport Awards, including the flagship Public Transport Operator of the Year title.
The UK’s largest independent bus operator, owned by Sandy and James Easdale, has been recognised across categories highlighting service quality, innovation and frontline work.
The Scottish Transport Awards bring together operators, policymakers and stakeholders from across the country to recognise achievements within Scotland’s transport sector.
The nominations come a week after McGill’s was named the UK’s top bus operator in a survey by independent watchdog Transport Focus.
McGill’s Group has been shortlisted in the following categories:
- Best Bus Service:
Midland Bluebird Service 38 (Falkirk – Stirling) - Excellence in Travel Information and Marketing:
Service 38 (Midland Bluebird) – Powering Positive Change - Frontline Employee of the Year:
Pummy Hadebe, who delivered a baby on board the 23 McGill’s bus (Bluebird) - Public Transport Operator of the Year:
McGill’s Group
Colin Napier, Group Service Delivery Director at McGill’s Buses, said: “These four nominations at the Scottish Transport Awards reflect the dedication and professionalism our teams show every day in delivering for our passengers.
“To be shortlisted once again for Public Transport Operator of the Year – alongside recognition for Best Bus Service – underlines the consistently high standards we aim to achieve in what is a highly competitive sector.
“It is particularly pleasing to see our Midland Bluebird Service 38 recognised, building on last year’s highly commended award for our Clydeflyer service and demonstrating our continued focus on improving services for local communities.
“I am especially delighted that Pummy Hadebe has been shortlisted for Frontline Employee of the Year following her remarkable actions. We are incredibly proud of her and all our colleagues, and we look forward to the awards evening. We wish all nominees the very best of luck.”
Supported by the Scottish Government, Transport Scotland, Network Rail, the Railway Industry Association and CPT Scotland, the 23rd annual Scottish Transport Awards will take place at the Glasgow Marriott Hotel on Thursday 11th June 2026.