For the 250 or so operators and local transport authorities who got involved with Catch The Bus Week not only did it raise the profile of buses, but also gave room for some publicity flair.
But what’s the best way to win and retain customers? Traditionally, it’s about value for money and it seems that still holds true.
It’s for this reason that many coach operators have a pleasantly long list of loyal customers who know that while they might not be getting the cheapest deal, they are content that they are getting the best deal.
These days, it’s not difficult to put together a showy website with pictures of smart-looking coaches – even if they aren’t your own. But, as Google is the first place that many turn to, a ‘false shop front’ is a way that some unsuspecting customers are lured into parting with their money to receive neither what they excepted, or indeed in some cases even a coach.
It’s left to other, often better and more considerate, operators to pick up the pieces.
This caring side of the industry has always been its strong point. From the outside, running coaches appears to be easy, and that’s because good operators make it look easy.
The attention to detail and care with which your relationships are treated mean that people will return. They know that they are more important to you than just a name on a database.
