RHA has marked three years of offering a membership package built around coaches as the trade body prepares for National Coach Week 2024 in early April.
The Association has signed up over 120 coach operator members since its presence in the industry was established on 1 March 2021. It founded a Coach Forum in 2022 to shape policy and direction. RHA’s work in the passenger sector is led by Operations Manager – Coach Sector Andy Warrender.
Managing Director Richard Smith has underlined that synergies between coaches and HGVs were among reasons for RHA’s diversification of its offering. “It made perfect sense that we would offer our experience, knowledge and support to operators who wanted to join us,” Mr Smith continues.
“I would like to thank the operators that have trusted us on this journey so far, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with them on their key priorities.”
National Coach Week 2024 will be held between 8-12 April. The concept was founded in 2022 and followed the template of National Lorry Week. A briefing note says that this year, the work will “celebrate the indispensable role that coaches play in connecting communities, supporting businesses, and driving economic growth across the UK.”
In addition, the note observes that advocacy and action are key to efforts. “Our campaign will spotlight the skilled individuals who power the coach industry, from drivers to maintenance crews, showcasing their dedication.
“Moreover, we will be engaging with policymakers to secure support for key policy priorities, emphasizing the unique needs of the coach industry and its invaluable contributions to our society and economy.”
RHA adds that National Coach Week is not solely for those within the industry, and that participation is welcome from other stakeholders, including passengers.
A social media campaign using the hashtag #NationalCoachWeek will be mounted, and RHA hopes to see promotion of safety and compliance and the showcasing of “innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of coach operations.”
Among founding members of the RHA coaches function was Runcorn operator Anthony’s Travel. Managing Partner Richard Bamber is Chair of the Coach Forum. On the third anniversary, he notes: “It gives me great pride that we are now the fastest growing trade association in the coach industry, with so many members in such a short space of time.”
