Some inaccuracies and unfair overgeneralisations in your post.
Majority of drivers I've encountered whether it be First, Stagecoach, Citybus or McGills (including Arriva before that) are very professional and very good at their jobs who do well to cope with the pressures of early starts, long shifts, poor weather, heavy congestion, rude and obnoxious passengers, inconsiderate road users etc. There are always a few that let the side down but you'll get that in any industry.
You're aren't comparing apples with apples when you use Lothian as an example as they are very well funded and are able to afford to run their business in a way that the big groups can't. Also, Edinburgh hasn't the suffered the same levels of depopulation (especially around the inner city) and deindustrialisation over a number of years like Glasgow has and many bus passengers have been lost as a result.
Nobody knows what the future holds but it seems to me that First are making a better effort under their new Scottish MD than previous leadership. No bus operator is perfect but I would say in Scotland only Lothian (for their presentation and clear information) and Stagecoach Fife Scottish (excellent long distance routes) are better than First Glasgow who at least offer good value with their monthly and annual tickets which Lothian don't.
