The company’s Managing Director, Bob Hind explained, "No one likes to increase their prices especially at such a difficult time but, as everyone knows from their domestic bills, costs are steadily rising. The latest retail price index showed that inflation is currently running at 5.4%. But we’ve worked hard behind the scenes to ensure that the overall increase in our fares will be kept as low as possible."
"Most single journeys will rise by 10 pence and a small number by 20 or 30 pence. There are also changes to day and other period savers. Passengers may find it saves money to buy a multi journey saver ticket. For example, the £55 Midlands 4-Weekly Saver offers big savings on journeys across the whole Midlands area – and is fully transferable between family and friends. A 10% discount when purchasing from the internet remains in place offering unlimited travel for ONLY £1.76 per day."
"At one time the majority of our passengers paid the full fare but that situation has changed dramatically over the last few years. Our costs are just the same whether we carry an adult, or a concessionary passenger. Funding from Central Government to local authorities has been cut resulting in reductions in reimbursement for concessionary travel schemes to local bus companies."
“Arriva Midlands has also been put in a difficult position by its suppliers and the Government with a 38% rise in its fuel bill for next year as BSOG (Fuel Duty Rebate) is reduced.”
The changes will be introduced on Tuesday 3rd January 2012.
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