31 March 2008

Driver investment pays dividends for Lucketts Travel

Hampshire coach firm Lucketts Travel is setting new benchmarks in the industry with innovative driver training schemes and the creation of its own driver academy.

Not only are its drivers among the very best on the road, but a huge emphasis on customer servicing is paying dividends in terms of happy customers and repeat business.

Steve Luckett from the Fareham-based company said that the firm’s commitment to customer care, which has earned the company a raft of awards and accolades, has been extended to foster a new breed of coach driver.

“In addition to demonstrating advanced driving skills, new recruits to the driving team are required to display high standards of customer service with a keen understanding of what clients expect from their travel experience,’’ said Steve.

Recognition of the importance of customer care has been the mainstay of the company’s strategy throughout its 80 year history and underpins its position as the premier coach travel company in the south of England.

As part of this customer focused initiative the company has employed its own driver training instructor Ian Hills and the first five drivers to go through the new driver academy have just completed their training.

Five new starters joined in October from a range of customer facing industries and the drivers include a former plumber and those with a background in hotels and engineering.

Their training incorporated the PCV driver test together with foundation courses in health and safety and customer care leading to Level 2 NVQ PVC Driving, the only nationally recognised industry qualification.

In addition to the training for new recruits, more than 50 Lucketts employees have now achieved NVQ Level 2, demonstrating the value of the company’s investment in continuous training.

“One of the things that sets us apart from our competitors is our holistic approach to the travel experience and our appreciation of the elements that matter most to our customers,” said Steve.

“Having top quality drivers is crucial but in such a competitive environment customers deserve more.’’

Lucketts Travel employs 120 people in the south.


Pictured left to right: Daniel Ryan; Ian Hills; Romesh Basra; Steve Luckett