The Go-Ahead Group was founded in 1987 in Newcastle upon Tyne following the privatisation of the National Bus Company, beginning as a regional bus operator before quickly expanding across the North East through strategic acquisitions.

The company grew significantly after listing on the London Stock Exchange in 1994, strengthening its presence in the UK bus market and becoming one of London’s largest bus operators through the London Central and London General brands. In the mid-1990s, Go-Ahead entered the rail sector through its Govia joint venture, going on to operate major rail franchises such as Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern. 

From the 2010s, the Group expanded internationally, securing transport contracts in Ireland, Singapore, Norway, Sweden and Australia. 

In 2022, Go-Ahead entered a new phase when it was acquired by a consortium led by Kinetic and Globalvia, positioning the company as a major international transport operator focused on innovation, sustainability and high-quality passenger services.