Award-winning coach tour operator marks 45th anniversary as new Van Hool coach order is revealed
Parrys International, the Cheslyn Hay-based coach tour operator, celebrated its 45th anniversary at the weekend, with owner Dave Parry announcing an order for new coaches and plans to keep going until at least 2023.
Although the business started in 1973 as Speedway Coaches, it soon became a tour specialist using the now-familiar Parrys International brand and livery.
It is best known for its fleet of high-specification coaches used on a successful UK and Continental own-tour and excursion programme. Meanwhile, Mr Parry’s passion for speedway continues in his sponsorship of the Wolverhampton Wolves team.
To help celebrate the anniversary the company held a gala dinner at the Holiday Inn at Garforth near Leeds on Saturday (3 November).
Trade suppliers were among the 125 guests that included family, members of staff, and two coach loads of regular customers enjoying a two-day Yorkshire tour based at the hotel used by Parrys for the past 32 years.
Although Mr Parry had thoughts of retiring five years ago when he came close to selling the business, he told the guests that despite having raised well-published concerns about the effect of Brexit, he was committed to a new five-year business plan. “I hope to see you all when we celebrate our 50th,” he said.
He reinforced this commitment to carry on by unveiling the 2019 brochure and announcedan order for six new Van Hool coaches that will further upgrade his fleet.
