A new partnership has been established between Abta and RHA Coaches to enhance the voice of the coach travel sector. The collaboration aims to provide greater support and services for members of both organisations.
- This strategic partnership is expected to enhance membership benefits for coach travel companies, addressing key policy issues such as post-Brexit travel.
- RHA Coaches, part of the Road Haulage Association, aims to deliver stronger support through this formalised collaboration with Abta.
- The alignment will offer legal advice and financial protection solutions to members, adhering to Package Travel Regulations.
- Key industry leaders highlight the partnership’s potential to influence UK and EU travel legislation positively.
The recent establishment of a partnership between Abta and the coach division of the Road Haulage Association (RHA Coaches) is set to amplify the collective voice of the coach travel sector. This collaboration is poised to offer substantial advantages to members of both organisations. This strategic move is anticipated to strengthen policy influence in key areas impacting coach travel, notably in the context of post-Brexit school travel and the implementation of new entry systems in the EU.
RHA Coaches, which commenced operations in March 2021 as a segment of the Road Haulage Association, seeks to offer enhanced services to coach companies. Through this partnership, the companies aim to share resources and combine efforts to support the coach industry in addressing challenges and capitalising on new opportunities.
For members of Abta, this alliance brings the added advantage of accessing RHA’s specialised services, such as legal advice and financial protection mechanisms essential for compliance with the Package Travel Regulations. Abta’s director of membership and financial protection, Rachel Jordan, remarked on the significance of the partnership, highlighting its ability to formalise an already existing relationship, thereby opening avenues for deeper collaboration.
Richard Smith, managing director of RHA, described the alliance as a “formidable offering”, emphasising the joint efforts towards aligning resources to address industry priorities. This collaboration promises to extend the reach of established brands, enhancing the range and depth of services available to members.
Jason Edwards, who manages both Abta and RHA Coaches, acknowledged the extensive knowledge and guidance provided by RHA as a complement to Abta’s established industry support. He noted how the partnership not only reassures clients with the credibility of the Abta brand but also unifies industry efforts on regulatory challenges across the UK and Europe.
The partnership represents a significant ‘win-win’ scenario for UK coach companies, combining the formidable reach of two well-established bodies. This cooperative stance is likely to foster resilience and growth, offering members access to a wealth of resources and expert guidance across a range of operational domains.
The collaboration between Abta and RHA Coaches signifies a progressive step in bolstering support and services for the coach travel industry.
