The Merseyrail Electrics franchise was awarded by the Director of Passenger Rail Franchising to MTL. On 18 February 2000 MTL was purchased by Arriva. On 23 April 2003 Abellio/Serco were awarded the Merseyrail Electrics franchise with the services operated by Arriva Trains Merseyrail transferring to Merseyrail on 20 July 2003.