PC Coaches of Lincoln is another coach and bus operator to move into employee ownership via the establishment of an employee ownership trust.
Such a transition secures the long-term future of the business. It was founded in 1978 with a single coach by Peter C Smith and has grown into a leading passenger transport operator in Lincolnshire and Humberside with 125 vehicles at depots in Grimsby, Horncastle, Lincoln and Louth.
Mr Smith will stay actively involved with PC Coaches by serving as chair of the trustees of the employee ownership trust. That will provide continuity of leadership and safeguard the business’s values and long-term vision, it says.
Continues Mr Smith: “From starting with a single coach in 1978 to becoming the region’s largest independent operator, this journey has only been possible because of the dedication and professionalism of our team.
“Moving to an employee ownership trust is a natural next step. It protects the independence of the company, preserves our values, and ensures that the business remains in safe hands for the future.”
The employee ownership trust has been established for the benefit of all current and future employees. It will hold a controlling interest in the company to ensure long-term stability, independence, and sustained investment.
PC Coaches has expanded beyond its traditional background and into the bus market over recent years. It now operates commercial and contracted services and is an active member of the Lincolnshire County Council Enhanced Partnership, a founding member of the Transport for Greater Lincolnshire Partnership, and a member of ALBUM.
Managing Director Stephen Bryce describes the shift to employee ownership as “an exciting next step” for PC Coaches.
He adds: “Employee ownership strengthens our commitment to long-term growth, operational excellence, and continued investment in our fleet and our people. It gives everyone within the business a shared stake in our future success.”
Multiple other coach and bus operators have already moved into employee ownership. They include Alfa Travel, Berrys Coaches of Taunton, Shuttle Buses of Kilwinning, Stephensons of Essex and NIBS Buses parent Eastern Transport Holdings, and Creigiau Travel. The latter South Wales operator explained to routeone in 2025 the benefits of such a shift.
