(25 Feb 2021, 2:27 pm)Driver9*** wrote You tell me? Does it honestly increase passenger numbers by having buses painted in jazzy colours and given silly brand names? 99.9% of punters are not interested in the slightest I'd imagine as long as it turns up on time and is comfortable to sit in.

Yes, when done properly, it does. Arriva recorded growth on their Northumbria Sapphire and Max services after every upgrade.

Branding raises awareness to the route existing, a physical object driving past someone is one of the best forms of advertising, ultimately keeping you in a job.