M&S Coaches of Hereford has been taken over by Worcester-based coach and bus operator Astons Coaches.
M&S Coaches, which runs 15 vehicles and will continue to operate from its Leominster base, was started 25 years ago by Maurice and Sue Peruffo, who have decided to retire.
All of the staff will remain within M&S and become part of the Astons Group, bringing its fleet total to 71.
Maurice Peruffo says: “Once we had made the decision to retire, we wanted to identify a company which would provide the best possible fit with our business.
“Over the last few months, in discussion with Astons’ MD Richard Conway and his team, we became convinced that they had the same approach as us in providing the best quality service while realising that our people are our key assets.
“Though Les Allen will be standing down as a director, I am delighted that both he and all our team will be remaining in the business, even as Sue and I retire.”
Says Mr Conway: “We are delighted to welcome the M&S team into the Astons Group.
“They run a very efficient business, where the customer comes first. The quality and presentation of their vehicles are of the highest order.
“This is exactly what we strive to deliver ourselves and why this is therefore such a good match. I have no doubt that they will become an important part of our business.”
