TransMach to roll out new features for TM700
TransMach to roll out new features for TM700
TransMach has unveiled a range of new features for its TM700 electronic ticket machine (ETM) that are designed to enhance driver safety and operational efficiency.
The newly launched 5G-enabled ETM will be updated this summer with TransMach’s "real-time headway management" system. This enables drivers to see the time gap between vehicles on the route, allowing drivers to maintain service gaps and inform waiting passengers when the next bus will arrive if the current one is full.
Also rolled out will be a "stop and go" indicator to show the driver how long to wait at the stop, based on the timetable. It will also be able to provide driver punctuality reports.
Voice over Internet Protocol technology will be added to the ETM to boost communication options between the driver and depot. This will include a "panic" button and a facility to upload audio and video footage in the event of a driver emergency.
In addition, a satnav-based adaptation will offer low-bridge detection.
TransMach Director Minesh Vandra says: “TransMach is focused on adding value to operators without adding cost and our latest innovations can be integrated as part of our standard customer agreement.
"We have been delighted at the response to the launch of our TM700 ETM and its 5G capability has facilitated a number of extra features to assist and protect drivers and benefit operators.
"As well as supplying and supporting the installation of the ETM units, TransMach’s responsive SaaS (Software as a Service) cloud-based back-office system has helped deliver significant efficiencies to operators.”
C9 Recruitment announces reshaping of senior leadership team
C9 Recruitment announces reshaping of senior leadership team
Transport and logistics industries staffing specialist C9 Recruitment has reshaped its senior leadership team. Alfie Rae (pictured, centre) is elevated to Chief Executive, with founder and previous postholder Sam Wharfe (pictured, right) moving to an Executive Chairman role.
The change has been made to support and enhance C9’s long-term strategy and growth. Mr Rae will work closely with Commercial Director Daniel Lunn (pictured, left) to continue to meet the evolving recruitment needs of sectors including coach and bus, the business says.
Mr Rae joined C9 in December 2024. He has strong recruitment experience and steps up from the position of Operations Director. As Chief Executive he will leverage his hands-on operational focus and track record of delivering client satisfaction and team growth.
Now as Executive Chairman, Mr Wharfe will focus on scaling C9 in international markets while continuing to shape its strategic direction and maintaining key industry relationships. A change of position within C9 will also allow him to focus on other ventures and wider plans built around “positive disruption” outside the recruitment world.
Meanwhile, Mr Lunn – who joined C9 Recruitment in 2024 having spent almost 20 years in commercial roles with routeone – will work with Mr Rae to drive business development and deliver the best experience to clients.
That will leverage Mr Lunn's long experience in the coach and bus industry while bringing fresh perspectives to C9 from outside its core sphere and majoring on positive change.
Speaking about his move, Mr Rae says: “I am honoured to step into the Chief Executive role at C9 Recruitment and am extremely excited to deliver further on Sam’s vision for a trusted recruitment partner in a sector that needs positive disruption.
“With Sam’s ongoing guidance, vision and strategy from a leadership perspective with the advisory board, Daniel’s commercial expertise and the strength of our operational team, I am extremely confident that we will continue our upward trajectory and deepen the value we offer to the transport and logistics sectors tremendously.”
Mr Wharfe underlines how the transition is structed to ensure continuity and innovation and business growth while continuing delivery of “our service excellence to the transport industry, which we feel embedded with.”
He continues: “Alfie’s operational strengths, supported by Daniel, and the incoming further leadership team, are exactly what C9 needs to move forward. I am pleased to stay actively involved as Executive Chairman and to support the senior leadership team at a board level while still executing my day one vision of having a clean and compliant sector.”
Mr Lunn adds that he is “fully aligned” behind the new structure. “Having worked closely with Alfie and Sam, even traditionally as C9’s supplier and early on identifying its mission and values, I am excited by the opportunity to advance our commercial offerings and strengthen our service to partners and friends.”
Non-executive director Luke Robinson believes that the new leadership structure is “a pivotal step in C9’s journey.”
He continues: “Alfie’s promotion and Sam’s continued strategic oversight ensure a smooth transition and sustained focus on innovation and sector expertise backed by industry leading compliance models. I am confident that under this enhanced leadership strategy, C9 is posed for even greater success.”
Euro Bus Expo 2026 early exhibitor interest building strongly
Sole UK dedicated coach and bus trade show looks to a strong return next year
With around 16 months until the three-day showcase of vehicles, services and products, 67 exhibitors have already secured their stand space.
The 2026 show will host a broad mix of coach, bus and minibus manufacturers and dealers and product and service providers, all displaying the latest innovations in the passenger transport sector.
Confirmed exhibitors so far include AT Industries, AES Fleet, AlcoDigital, Alcolock UK, Altro, Asset Alliance, BASE Coach Sales, Distinctive Systems, GM Coachwork, Irizar UK, Pelican Bus and Coach, Ticketer, PHVC Minibus Leasing and Fleet Suppliers, and VDL Van Hool.
Speaking about progress so far on the 2026 show, Commercial Manager Martin Laverton says: “We are really pleased with the early response from exhibitors.
“Euro Bus Expo continues to be a key date in the industry calendar. Its timing in November aligns perfectly with operator planning cycles and purchasing decisions, offering a valuable opportunity for operators and suppliers to connect, do business, and build long-term partnerships.”
As stand space fills up, organiser Diversified UK & Europe is encouraging companies interested in exhibiting to get in touch early to secure their preferred location.
Progress on Euro Bus Expo 2026 follows a successful event in 2024, which was the first since a decision by Diversified to move to a two-year cycle for coach and bus trade shows. That shift was informed by engagement with the industry and support from a host of exhibitors.
Further news of Euro Bus Expo 2026 will be shared by routeone when it breaks. The event also has a mailing list for interested parties to remain up-to-date.
Those interested in exhibiting should visit the Euro Bus Expo website for further details, or contact Martin Laverton directly via email at [email protected] to discuss requirements.