Fullington sold to French firm

Nick Malawskey

After 101 years of being a family owned and operated business, Fullington Trail-ways has announced it has entered into an agreement to sell a controlling interest in the company to a French transit company, Ratp Dev.

Ratp Dev is a transit operator in 10 nations. The purchase of Fullington marks its entry into the United States.

Aerial Fullington Weisman, president and CEO of the Clearfield-based company, said in a news release that the sale will allow the company to “continue to thrive” by leveraging Ratp Dev’s knowledge and resources.

Fullington will continue to operate under its existing name. No changes in management are expected.

Fullington has 350 employees at its two offices in Clearfield and State College. It also has school bus operations in Clearfield, Philipsburg, Houtzdale and Hollidaysburg.

Founded by Emerson Fullington in 1908, the bus line provides tours, charters and school bus services.

Ratp Dev has operated for 60 years, maintaining and operating bus, metro and rail systems on four continents.

Jean-Marc Janaillac, president and CEO of Ratp Dev, said the company became interested in purchasing a stake in Fullington because of its solid name in the business.

“We are convinced that Fullington’s reputation as an outstanding transportation company, combined with the financial and technical support of Ratp Dev, will make it a more formidable company,” he said.

Nick Malawskey can be reached at 235-3928.