Does the industry leverage the potential for partnerships with businesses outside the sector to its best advantage?
In some cases, it does. Otherwise, it does not. And the opportunity to take advantage of such arrangements is growing as more forward-thinking organisations see the value of working with operators to provide cost-effective, high-quality transport.
In Oxford, the PickMeUp minibus DRT has grown quicker than expected, but commercialising it is challenging. Its operator wants to work with businesses to help do that, having already engaged thus when the concept was launched.
Meanwhile, National Express has purchased a shuttle operator in the United States that provides bespoke transport for employers. It has an operating profit as a percentage of turnover in double figures. Clearly, working with outside bodies can deliver.
Those examples are the tip of the iceberg. Several coach operators already partner with major employers to deliver employee transport services, but a lot of low-hanging fruit still blows in the wind. That will only increase with the waning interest in learning to drive among young people.
As a result, it’s important that the industry’s case is presented. It must be considered when planning permission is granted for out-of-town employment areas.
To ensure both happen, a trade body with clout is required. It is to its credit that the Confederation of Passenger Transport has made good on its promise to appoint a seasoned communications specialist to the position of Chief Executive.
Graham Vidler faces a baptism of fire, joining the industry as it goes through a tough time. But if it works together and gets its message across, the coach and bus sector may emerge in a stronger, albeit leaner, position.
