Unicard, which provides of smart ticketing and payment solutions to transport sector, has announced that is has purchased smart ticketing specialist Ecebs from Visa.
The acquisition will allow Unicard to add contactless EMV, which allows passengers to tap in and out using a payment card, to its current portfolio of ITSO, ABT (Account Based Ticketing), MaaS (Mobility-as-a-Service), and rail ticketing solutions.
Having a contactless EMV solution available will enable the Dorset-based business to respond to needs of local authorities and transport operators, putting it at the centre of the rapidly growing smart mobility sector.
To date, Unicard’s solutions have been adopted by over 70 local and regional authorities in England and Scotland, including Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), Transport Scotland, Mersey Travel and Solent Transport, as well as the provision of the central back office for Rail Delivery Group. Unicard can now add Transport for Wales and, significantly, Transport for London (TfL) to the list.
Unicard CEO Sean Dickinson explained: “Acquiring Ecebs has strengthened Unicard’s position in the smart travel market, and significantly extends our capabilities and footprint. We’re committed to delivering accessible, inclusive and integrated ticketing solutions for both our new and existing customers, while also helping them deliver new, innovative smart travel schemes.”
“Our three guiding principles in approaching the acquisition were about selecting the right partner, ensuring continuity of business for ours, and their customers, whilst maintaining our reputation as a partner renowned for its market innovation, close working relationships and importantly, customer care.
“Unicard has a strong heritage in the industry, but it’s important for us to retain Ecebs’ expert knowledge and market insight to continue providing high quality products and services to all our customers and their passengers.”
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