Barnes Coaches gets on board with new travel firm

Swindon-based Barnes Coaches has teamed up with some of the UK’s best-known coach operators to form The Coach Travel Group.

Barnes Coaches says the move will change the face of the UK coach travel industry it links with Alpine Travel, Coatham Coaches, JH Coaches, Johnsons Coaches, Swans Travel and The Ready Group. 

The strategic merger has created what is described as a forward-thinking firm focused on unrivalled quality and customer service.

 

Barnes Coaches CEO Matt Barnes said: "This is a major event for Barnes Coaches and the whole of the UK coach travel industry.

“We are proud to have joined a national group formed by local coach companies. Loyal and new customers will still receive our high level of service, but they can soon take advantage of a wider selection of holidays and tours.

 

"By joining forces with other respected businesses, we have laid the foundations for an unbeatable group travel experience. With the support of our new partners, we can be a leading name in the industry while continuing our aim of improving every journey.

“The main reason for merging with other coach travel businesses was to expand our reach and capabilities. We can now offer a more complete solution to our customers and will have the ability to say ‘yes’ to new customers wherever they are.”

 

The new business is described as having a high-growth strategy with the potential for future acquisitions and is now placed as the travel partner and employer of choice in the industry. Each one of the seven founding firms has a strong reputation for safety, customer service, operational delivery and a culture of respect for all stakeholders.

 

Barnes Coaches has a long history in the coach travel industry with fully-trained, experienced staff who have developed strong links in the local community. This is billed as one of the key benefits of The Coach Travel Group – it can offer UK-wide coverage but retains a personal and reliable reputation among its current customers.

 

Matt Barnes added: “Our broad base of local customers can still rely on Barnes Coaches to provide an affordable and convenient travel experience with a modern fleet of comfortable, eco-friendly coaches driven by professional drivers.

“As part of a national group, we can negotiate better deals with suppliers and invest in new technologies to enhance the overall customer experience. It will also give us coach parking and service back-up across the country.

“Barnes Coaches customers can expect the same level of service as they have always enjoyed, delivered on our coaches with our drivers. Our focus on customer satisfaction will continue and be delivered by the same team as before.”