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Trainline to acquire smart card software firm
The Trainline is to embrace smartcard technology after agreeing to acquire software company AST.
The deal for an undisclosed sum gives the online rail ticket retailer AIM-listed AST’s wholly-owned subsidiary Ecebs, which specialises in software for smartcard systems and applications.
Trainline CEO Alan Tomlin said: “One of the ways that Trainline provides benefits to rail industry stakeholders is in developing and implementing new methods of rail retailing and information services, designed to reduce rail industry costs over time and enhance customer service and experience.
“The ability to be able to purchase a rail ticket or have a rail ticket fulfilled to a smartcard or smart enabled mobile device in a secure manner is one such important development.
“The acquisition of AST plc and its experienced management team meets Trainline’s strategic plans and objectives in this area in the shortest timeframe.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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