30 years of operating is no easy feat for any business, and it is a privilege to celebrate this milestone with Dawsongroup bus and coach. With so many industry changes over the years, the team at bus and coach has experienced it all, conquering challenges and going from strength to strength.
“If you’d asked me 30 years ago if I’d still be here, I’d say no way, but I’m delighted. I’m in a position where I choose to do this, and I genuinely enjoy being part of the passenger transport profession.” – Paul Sainthouse, Managing Director for Dawsongroup bus and coach.
Humble Beginnings
Originally, Dawsongroup bus and coach was part of a diversification programme but now it’s one of the Group’s leading businesses. Part of this is due to the business unit beginning at a great time, as industry changes caused a somewhat new commercial market after deregulation.
Overcoming Challenges
But, of course, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. As with any business, there have been challenges along the way. However, with Dawsongroup bus and coach, there have been remarkably few business failures. Even during the pandemic, the business grew stronger, despite the industry coming to a standstill!
“We didn’t cancel one vehicle we had on order,” Paul Sainthouse said of the pandemic. “We continued to take vehicles into our fleet, even though it was a struggle to find the customers, and we continued to honour our obligations. We supported our customers where they needed to be supported, even extending facilities on £7-8 million of debt to help customers trade during difficult times.”
Listening to our customers, and the industry, while closely observing current events were just a few things that have contributed to 30 successful years.
An Exciting Future
The last thirty years have solidified Dawsongroup bus and coach’s position as a powerhouse of the people transport industry, a company that provides solutions for businesses across the country. Whether people are looking to invest in Zero-Emission technology or more flexible fleet management opportunities, Paul’s team are ready to meet the challenge.
We can’t wait to see the future of the business, so cheers to Dawsongroup bus and coach on an amazing 30 years – we’re looking forward to the future!