Coach Hire Comparison Adopts Innovative Automated Pricing System
"Coach Hire Comparison is set to transition to an automated pricing system, moving away from the current method where operators manually submit quotes for individual customer requests. This change comes after a significant six-figure investment, positioning the company for more streamlined and efficient service.
The website, which connects customers with over 250 independent minibus and coach operators across the UK, will generate instant quotes, ensuring that a suitable operator will always be found to fulfill customer requirements.
At present, operators spend an average of 24 days per year submitting quotes, with “no guarantee of success”, explains co-founder James Stokes. The new system provides a ""Book It Now"" feature, allowing operators to log in daily to view and accept opportunities that match their fleet and location. This system ensures that operators are fully paid for every booking they take on.
The transition will occur in phases, with the goal of automating 80% of inquiries by the end of the year. The pricing model will rely on over a decade's worth of data, including metrics such as search trends, conversion rates, and historical pricing behaviours. Factors like time of day, day of the week, seasonality, and specific onboard amenities will all be considered when calculating quotes.
Not only will this shift save time for operators, but it will also improve the customer experience, says Stokes. ""Currently, there are instances of overpricing by significant margins, as well as underquoting, which can result in delays in getting average quotes. This leaves many customers underserved and significant revenue potential untapped.""
He adds that the ""Book It Now"" system will address these issues by providing accurate, instant quotes and securing fully paid bookings for operators. This, in turn, will offer them more certainty, better cash flow, and reduced administrative burden. Customers, on the other hand, will benefit from a faster, more seamless booking process and a clearer understanding of journey costs.
With customers increasingly expecting a digital experience, Stokes believes investing in technology is crucial to maintaining their position as a market leader. Coach Hire Comparison, which was acquired by CMAC in June 2023, provides around 5,000 quotes per month for various events, including school trips, corporate bookings, airport transfers, travel to music festivals and sporting events.
Looking ahead, the company is targeting significant growth, aiming to double its size over the next year. It also plans to expand its services internationally, with Ireland and Portugal slated for 2025, and Spain and Greece also under consideration.
Describing the move as the biggest enhancement in the company’s 14-year history, Stokes says, ""We believe 'Book It Now' will be transformative for operators and customers alike. It represents a new, more efficient way of working and will bring a host of benefits, from increased earnings for operators to a better overall experience for customers.""
The company is confident that the automated pricing model will become a standard of excellence within the industry, with webinars planned to help operators adapt to the new system."
Westway Coaches is first private owner of Yutong U11DD electric
Westway Coaches of West Molesey has taken delivery of the first privately-operated Yutong U11DD battery-electric double-decker to be supplied by Pelican Bus and Coach.
It continues an established relationship between the two businesses, with Westway having been the first purchaser of battery-electric coaches from Pelican in 2019 when it took the first of several Yutong TCe12 models. The U11DD made its debut in 2023.
The new arrival is a 72-seat model with each position trimmed in leather. It is finished in Westway’s distinctive understated livery and is PSVAR compliant.
422kWh of battery capacity is fitted, which is protected by the Yutong Electric Safety Standard.
The bus is air-conditioned throughout, has a camera monitoring system in lieu of rear-view mirrors, and comes with a cherished 74-plate registration mark.
Westway Coaches Managing Director David West says that being the first operator of a privately-owned Yutong U11DD “marks an important milestone” for the business.
“This investment highlights our commitment to reducing emissions and providing a superior, eco-friendly travel experience for our passengers,” Mr West continues.
Adds Pelican Bus and Coach Managing Director Richard Crump: “This delivery represents a significant step towards a cleaner, greener future and demonstrates our dedication to offering innovative electric vehicle solutions.”
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CPT Operator Forum to Launch at Euro Bus Expo 2024
Debuting on 13 November at Euro Bus Expo, the CPT Operator Forum will provide an interactive space for coach and bus operators to address key industry issues.
Euro Bus Expo organiser, Diversified Communications, today announce a new development within its longstanding partnership with the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT): the CPT Operator Forum.
Debuting on day two of the free to attend, three-day industry showcase, which takes place from 12-14 November 2024 at the NEC Birmingham, the Forum will introduce new perspectives in an interactive format.
As part of the Euro Bus Expo 2024 Masterclass Theatre programme, it will address a range of critical topics, including accessibility, recruitment, and the evolving future of the industry. Unlike traditional conferences, the Forum will prioritise practical, operator-focused discussions, with the goal of sharing knowledge and insights to address the industry's most pressing concerns.
CPT Operator Forum Programme
Advantage or Artificial?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in our daily lives. While some are embracing the new opportunities, others remain cautious, unsure of the potential risks. Yet, with AI’s growing influence, it’s time to consider what benefits it can bring to business. This session will answer some of the questions operators have been unsure how to ask and offer a glimpse into how others may be gaining a competitive advantage.
The Accessibility Challenge
The last five years have brought significant changes to the coach and bus industry in terms of accessibility, with more on the horizon. Many operators have embraced the opportunity these changes present, while others may be missing the opportunity to grow their businesses and positively impact lives. This session will not only cover regulatory requirements but will also look beyond compliance, exploring how operators can attract new users and create more welcoming and enjoyable travel experiences for everyone.
Coach Tourism – Access all areas
From days out to historic centres and attractions, to grand tours across Europe, coach tourism provides a vast range of experiences. However, ensuring coaches are consistently welcomed and have access to all areas remains a problem. This session will explore practical initiatives that support operators, encouraging feedback and new ideas, while also providing updates on the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), the EU Entry/Exit System, and changes to Package Travel Regulations.
All Aboard – A workforce for a new era
Recruitment has been a pressing issue in the coach and bus industry for the past few years, but has the driver shortage really been resolved, or is it still a challenge in a shifting labour market? This session will dive into these key questions, drawing on evidence and experience and looking at how the market is and should be changing.
The Future of Coach – Are we there yet?
As new research sheds light on the economic impact of the coach industry, perceptions of its broader contribution to society are gradually evolving. The panel will offer a glimpse into their visions of how the future may look for the market, from city-wide coach strategies to the sustainability agenda, the coach itself and life as an operator.
A Collaborative Platform for Industry Challenges
Celebrating its 50th year, the CPT Operator Forum will bring together operators, suppliers, and key decision-makers for meaningful dialogue and collaborative problem-solving.Says Keith McNally, Operations Director at CPT:
“The CPT Operator Forum is an opportunity for coach and bus operators to come together, discuss their experiences, and find new ways to thrive in an increasingly complex landscape. We are proud to partner with Euro Bus Expo to launch this forum, and particularly to bring CPT’s wealth of insights and expertise to a wider audience, free of charge. It’s a fantastic opportunity for attendees to tackle key industry issues, hear of opportunities and gain practical knowledge. We’re looking forward to sharing the speaker details soon.”
Exploring the Full Seminar Line-up
The CPT Operator Forum is just one part of Euro Bus Expo’s extensive three-day programme, which is packed with sessions addressing the industry's biggest challenges.
From industry structure, net zero strategies and decarbonising coaches on day one, to charting the future of bus services, the operational considerations of zero-emission fleets, and driver wellbeing on day three, the programme offers a wide range of insights. Attendees can expect to leave armed with new knowledge to navigate the evolving coach and bus landscape.
Says Event Director Helen Conway:
“Euro Bus Expo has always been a platform for addressing the most significant challenges and opportunities within the industry. Our partnership to deliver the CPT Operator Forum on the second day takes this to a new level. The sessions on days one and three, curated from industry-submitted applications and reviewed by an independent panel, ensure we are tackling the most pressing topics. Coupled with CPT’s expertise when shaping day two, the combination delivers an exceptional programme that provides operators with the insights and space to engage deeply with the issues that matter most to them.”
In addition to the seminar programme, Euro Bus Expo will showcase the latest innovations from across the industry. With 25 vehicle exhibitors displaying the newest models and over 180 exhibitors presenting the latest products and services, the exhibition floor will be packed with opportunities for attendees. Day 2, featuring the CPT Operator Forum, will culminate in the ultimate celebration of coach and bus: the routeone Awards, where the sector's top achievements and innovations will be honoured in an evening of networking and recognition.
For further information and to register, visit eurobusxpo.com.
Those interested in booking the last remaining exhibition spaces should contact Martin Laverton on [email protected].