NCT extends longstanding INIT ticketing partnership
NCT extends longstanding INIT ticketing partnership
INIT will continue to supply contactless ticketing and vehicle location technology on board Nottingham City Transport (NCT) buses via a new six-year deal.
The arrangement continues a 21-year partnership between the operator and the supplier, which has its UK headquarters in Nottingham's Lace Market area.
Account-based ticketing (ABT), enhancements of the planning, driver dispatching and rostering system, and an upgrade of the automatic vehicle location (AVL) system will result from the extended collaboration.
Notable prior developments of the partnership between INIT and NCT have included the introduction of contactless payments in 2020 and the groundbreaking roll-out of an "Oyster-style" multi-operator tap-and-go system in 2022.
Among the upcoming changes will be the replacement of the traditional Easyrider card-based system with an Easyrider ABT solution. Passengers will now be able to choose either card or mobile barcode for travel.
NCT bus users will be able to manage both their own and family members' travel from one account.
INIT’s "MOBILE-ITCS nextGen" automatic vehicle location system, which is also part of the upgrade, is designed to be more scalable and future-proof.
Jens Mullak, Managing Director of INIT, says: “We’re delighted to continue our long-standing partnership with Nottingham City Transport, supporting one of the UK’s most forward-thinking public transport networks.
“This new SaaS agreement marks an exciting new chapter, bringing smarter, more seamless travel experiences to passengers through account-based ticketing and the next generation of cloud capable back office systems.
"By harmonising ticketing, AVL and planning and dispatching, we are not only improving convenience for passengers but also empowering NCT to operate more efficiently and responsively than ever before.”
Anthony Carver-Smith, Head of Marketing and Projects at NCT says: “NCT and INIT have partnered for over 21 years, delivering high quality real time predictions to customers through the NCTX Buses app and website and a ticketing solution which saw the first multi modal, multi-operator capped contactless system introduced in the UK outside London.
"We are delighted to build on this success through our new six-year contract, which will see significant upgrades to both of these systems and our internal scheduling systems at the same time”.
New platform Savari launches to streamline coach operations
New platform Savari launches to streamline coach operations
A new tech platform designed specifically for coach and minibus operators has launched this month.
Operations tool Savari promises to address longstanding inefficiencies with a system "built by operators, for operators".
Features include seamless booking flows and real-time fleet oversight, aiming to give operators a more agile and transparent way to manage services, while addressing "clunky scheduling and missed opportunities".
Developers are keen to emphasise that Savari goes beyond existing software solutions. "It’s a purpose-built operations system, shaped by nearly 20 years of frontline experience in the luxury coach and minibus sector," says Savari CEO Romi Singh. "Born from the challenges operators face daily, Savari was designed to do one thing: Put operators back in control.
"Savari makes it easier to deliver the kind of service today’s clients expect — fast, transparent, and reliable. But this isn’t just about tools and tech. It’s about restoring what matters: time, clarity, and growth. We're not selling software. We're offering a system that understands your business because it's been built by people who’ve run it."
Distinctive Systems appoints new MD amid cloud platform expansion
Distinctive Systems appoints new MD amid cloud platform expansion
Coach and tour management software supplier Distinctive Systems has appointed Chris Whitehead as its new Managing Director.
Chris, who has been with the company for over 25 years, succeeds his late father and company founder Mike Whitehead. Chris started in a support role before moving into software development after gaining a computing degree in 2001.
His new role will see Chris oversee Distinctive's strategic direction, operations and future growth as the company shifts focus to its cloud-based offerings.
"I am extremely honoured to take on the role of Managing Director," he says. "My father, who sadly passed away earlier this year, built a business that we can all be proud of. It has grown from strength to strength every year and I am looking forwards to continuing this legacy.”
The generational transition coincides with the expansion of the company's software development team.
“I am extremely pleased to welcome Greg and Edward to our development team," Chris adds. "They both join as full-stack developers and their skills will play a key role in advancing our product roadmap. They join an existing strong team committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions to our clients.”
Comments Development Director Paul McJannett: "We're excited to welcome our two new senior developers to our already experienced development team. Together, they bring 35 years of commercial experience in building robust and secure cloud solutions. Their backgrounds span a range of sectors, including compliance and business management systems and we’re thrilled to have them join us as they will be instrumental in delivering some of the exciting new features we’re incorporating into our next-generation cloud platform."