A Rigorous and Transparent Tendering Process
This contract is the result of a call for tenders launched in December 2024, conducted through a single-envelope weighted bidding system that included competitive dialogue. This approach is based on both quantitative and qualitative criteria and involves structured discussions with bidders. These exchanges allow for the adjustment of certain parameters to better target specific needs and secure the most advantageous proposals. At the conclusion of this process, the decision to award the contract was ratified by exo’s Board of Directors on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
To ensure the fairness, rigor, and compliance of the process, exo engaged several external firms to establish a strict independent framework. This oversight guaranteed the integrity of the procurement stages and the quality of the analyses conducted throughout the call for tenders.
A Strategic Long-Term Commitment to High-Performance Rail Service
"This partnership represents a key milestone for exo. Transdev Canada's recognized expertise will allow us to continue our efforts in maintaining the reliability, quality, and efficiency of our services, while ensuring long-term savings aligned with our 2026–2028 optimization plan. We are excited to work together to better meet the current and future needs of our passengers" said Marc Rousseau, Executive Director of exo
"We are honored by this partnership with exo, which aligns with Transdev Canada's long-term vision for mobility in the region. Through this mandate, we intend to contribute responsibly to the public transit ecosystem, drawing on our expertise as well as the know-how of the teams working on the ground every day," added Arthur Nicolet, CEO of Transdev Canada.
As the second-largest public transit agency in the Montreal metropolitan area, exo transports commuters from the North and South Shores with efficiency and ease. Its 4,000 km2 territory covers the 82 municipalities of the Montreal Metropolitan Community, as well as Saint-Jérôme and Kahnawake. Whether by train, bus, paratransit, or shared taxi, exo is resolutely focused on the future, developing innovative and greener modes of transport.
Transdev Canada operates in six provinces and one territory across Canada, offering a wide range of community services, including urban, paratransit, school, medical, and rail transportation. Notably, it is the operator of the future Hazel McCallion Light Rail Transit (LRT) system in the Greater Toronto Area as a member of the Mobilinx consortium, and the future Ontario Line light rail as a member of the Connect 6ix consortium. Employing nearly 6,500 people across the country, Transdev Canada also holds the Great Place to Work® certification for 2024-2025, reflecting its teams' constant commitment to building a positive, inclusive work environment focused on the well-being of all.