‘Very challenging’ conditions for coaches in London are part of social enterprise’s reasons for its exit
HCT Group has confirmed its plans to wind down the Impact Coaches private hire operation and integrate the remainder of the Impact business into its existing brand.
The group purchased Impact from Tower Transit in August 2018 for an undisclosed sum, turning what was a privately-owned business into a social enterprise.
At the time, HCT Group CEO Dai Powell referred to “a good fit” existing between the two organisations.
However, HCT Group now says that market conditions for Impact’s coach hire arm “remain very challenging.” It refers to “a new regulation” on the horizon as part of that malaise, thought to be London’s forthcoming Ultra Low Emission Zone.
Impact’s school, SEN, social care and corporate contracts will all continue under the HCT brand and the group sees an opportunity to grow that part of its business.
“The move away from private hire in Perivale and HCT Group’s existing strength in the London contract market means that there is no real reason to keep the Impact brand. From 1 January, all services operated by Impact came directly under the HCT Group banner,” the group says.
Impact Operations Director Andy Palmer has left the business but there have been no job losses among driving and office staff. “Andy worked hard to ensure a smooth transition from the previous ownership into the HCT Group ear and he leaves with our thanks and best wishes,” the group adds.
