The Bonded Coach Holidays consumer protection scheme will be operated by ABTOT for a further five years. It comes after the approved body reached agreement with the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) to extend their partnership.
ABTOT took over responsibility for Bonded Coach Holidays in 2021. Since then, the scheme has welcomed 20 new coach tour operator members. The Bonded Coach Holidays brand marks its 30th year in 2024 and is described by CPT as “an important benefit” for coach operator members of the Confederation that run package tours.
In announcing the extension, ABTOT and CPT moved to scotch rumours that ABTOT was to introduce another consumer protection mechanism for coach operators. They say that it “never had, not currently has” any such intentions.
Continuation of the scheme’s operation by ABTOT will maintain benefits that include:
- A legal helpline and a package travel helpline
- Brochure review and advisory services
- Compliance guidance for terms and conditions.
Speaking about the extension, ABTOT Membership Director Samantha Bradbury says: “The Bonded Coach Holidays brand is well known to coach holiday consumers, and well trusted.
“All of us at ABTOT were delighted to bring the scheme under ABTOT’s financial protection umbrella in 2021, and we take real pleasure in seeing it continue to grow in numbers and strength.”
Adds CPT Chief Executive Graham Vidler: “We are delighted to continue to offer this highly valuable option for the coach tourism industry.
“CPT will continue to work closely with ABTOT to ensure that the scheme remains relevant and valuable, and to raise awareness. We look forward to continuing to work with members to provide a solid solution for those that specialise in coach tourism.”
In a previous communication, Mr Vidler noted that the enrolling of 20 new participants into Bonded Coach Holidays since 2021 is a mark of the “proactive” approach taken to the partnership between ABTOT and CPT.
