Exponent Private Equity (“Exponent”) today announces that it has reached an agreement to acquire Big Bus Tours, the UK-based global sightseeing bus tour operator.

Big Bus Tours is the largest operator of open-top sightseeing bus tours in the world, providing tours in sixteen cities across Europe, the US, and Asia.  The company was formed in 2011 by the merger of UK-based Big Bus Company Ltd and Paris-based Les Cars Rouges, with each company being family owned and having over 20 years of successful tour experience.

Commenting on the acquisition, Pat Waterman, CEO of Big Bus Tours, said:

“Following the merger in 2011, the Big Bus team has had considerable success in expanding the business.  We are excited about working with Exponent, which shares our vision to develop Big Bus Tours into the most recognizable brand in sightseeing; and supports our strategic objectives to deliver an enhanced customer experience, an ambitious programme of global expansion and a reinforcement of our market-leading position.”

Also commenting, Richard Lenane of Exponent, said:

“We are delighted to be investing, alongside the management and existing shareholders, in Big Bus Tours. The business is the industry leader in an exciting and growing market. We are looking forward to working with Pat and his team to help the business reach its full potential.”