In a strategic move to significantly boost its presence in London’s premium taxi and private hire market, ComfortDelGro has acquired Addison Lee for £269.1 million. This acquisition marks a major expansion for ComfortDelGro in the UK, solidifying its position in one of the world’s busiest and most competitive transport markets.
Addison Lee, with a fleet of over 4,800 vehicles, has long been a dominant player in the premium private hire sector, servicing more than 10,000 corporate clients, including 80% of FTSE 100 companies. Known for its reliable and luxurious service, particularly for business travel and airport transfers, Addison Lee has built a strong reputation across London, making it a valuable asset for ComfortDelGro.
ComfortDelGro, which already operates in the UK with its Metroline bus services and Westbus coach services, views this acquisition as a natural fit to extend its reach in the premium transport sector. With operations spanning 34,000 vehicles across 7 countries, ComfortDelGro is one of the world’s largest land transport companies, and this acquisition further consolidates its growing global presence.
Yang Ban Seng, Managing Director and Group CEO of ComfortDelGro, said: “The acquisition of Addison Lee is a significant milestone for ComfortDelGro, enhancing our foothold in the UK and particularly in London, a crucial transport market. Addison Lee’s strong brand and reputation align perfectly with our growth strategy, allowing us to scale up our mobility services in one of the world’s key cities.”
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Mr Liam Griffin, CEO of Addison Lee said: “Over the last four years, ComfortDelGro has demonstrated its deep knowledge of the business, and a clear understanding of our customers’ and drivers’ needs. This, alongside the strength and heritage of the Addison Lee brand, has positioned us perfectly for further expansion into the premium market. ComfortDelGro is a perfect fit for us. They share our philosophy, vision, and ambition for the Addison Lee brand and bring significant international industry expertise to the business.”
With ComfortDelGro’s backing, Addison Lee is expected to expand its technology-driven services and strengthen its focus on sustainability. As London increasingly shifts towards eco-friendly transport solutions, the acquisition positions ComfortDelGro to play a leading role in the future of the capital’s mobility services.
