Felixstowe Travel is another independent coach operator to be bought by industry investor REL Capital, which has taken a majority shareholding in the Suffolk business.
The deal strengthens REL’s presence in the East of England. It says that Felixstowe Travel will work closely with other group operators REL Davian and Tendring Travel. The existing management team at Felixstowe Travel, led by Alan Braybrooke, will remain in place.
Mr Braybrooke will report to Daniel Butterfield, who has been appointed Group Managing Director of REL’s coaching businesses.
Mr Butterfield previously had 16 years with the Go-Ahead Group, which saw him take senior roles in the UK and Singapore including operations management and turnaround work. His career began as a driver. REL Chairman Andy Scott notes that Mr Butterfield “has experience in every aspect of the business and is very hands-on.”
Appointment of Mr Butterfield follows replacement of the management team at REL Davian in the wake of what Mr Scott says were issues highlighted at a recent Public Inquiry.
Speaking about his decision to join the expanding coach operator group, Mr Butterfield says: “I am very much looking forward to working with the management team, drivers and customers across the REL businesses.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for REL to increase in capability of sustainable travel opportunities through the range of longstanding and trusted coach brands within its portfolio. It is exciting to be part of this substantial growth and our determination to be best in class and the operator of choice.”
The Felixstowe Travel deal with REL is the second coach operator purchase by a larger group to be announced within two days, quickly following the sale of Cheltenham-based Swanbrook to the Go-Ahead Group.
