NatEx moving at a smart pace with sales leap

Transport giant National Express today showed it is driving out the year in style, posting revenue growth in all its bus, train and coach sectors.

That follows an announcement today from the Association of Train Operating Companies showing average prices will rise by 5.9% for train users in January.

On the buses, NatEx said its new smartcard, Oyster-style tickets and 250 new vehicles - it replaced 15% of its fleet this year - had helped sales grow 4% over 2011.

In its coaches business it sold 5% more tickets this year than last, with airport, long-haul and London commuter services performing particularly well.

Revenues even grew by 5% in beleaguered Spain.