14 Oct 2005

Local family firm are UK´s best

The staff at Wigston-based Woods Coaches are celebrating this week, after winning the prestigious Coach Operator of the Year Award (11 – 30 vehicles) at the industry’s Route One Excellence Awards.

Established in 1950 by George and Elaine Wood with one 29-seat vehicle, the company continues today as a family-owned business, with son, Mark Wood at the helm as Managing Director. It now employs 97 staff, including 70 drivers, and the fleet has grown to 14 coaches plus 25 mini-buses. The company runs nearly 500 day trips and over 80 coach holidays throughout each year.

Judges were looking for excellence in the way the business is run, how well the company develop their business strategy and the success with which the business ethos is transmitted to staff and translated into action.

Woods Coaches were one of four finalists that were reached after rigorous checks on the entries and interviews with candidates. The award was then announced at a gala dinner at the National Motorcycle Museum near Birmingham.

“This is a real achievement for everyone in the company,” said Sales Director, Kevin Brown. “Engineers, sales staff, drivers and managers have all contributed to us winning this award.” “We are proud of our close-knit team spirit and feel that this has helped us to produce day excursions and holidays that people enjoy.”

Marketing Manager, Alison Trunkfield agreed that the company’s dedication to its 16,000 Leicestershire customers has been a key part to the company’s success. She said, “We really do care about our customers and take a big interest in what they think. We are always listening to suggestions and are pleased to receive the many cards and letters from customers who have been delighted with their trip.”