BUSK has convened a meeting to work towards setting national standards for coach brokers.
BUSK’s Pat Harris told CBW: “Some good brokers can be found in the UK but undoubtedly, from BUSK research, there is a rogue element that cause mayhem, put passenger safety at risk and who let customers and operators down repeatedly. What they have done successfully, is to give brokers a bad name.
“They often charge hirers inflated rates and then hire the lowest quality vehicles and in many instances, just do not turn up. The idea is to get operators and brokers in the same room with a view to creating a set of national standards.”
The half-day event, which is free to attend, will take place in Swindon on Tuesday, August 20. The day starts at 0915hrs for registration and welcome refreshments, before beginning in earnest at 0930. The event is due to finish by 1300.
Asked by CBW how many people have booked to attend so far, Pat replied: “50 – and the venue has a capacity for up to double that.”
Speakers include representatives from Don’t Travel Empty, Momentum, The Kings Ferry, Anthony’s Travel, Reynolds Diplomat and Coach Hire Comparison. The proceedings will be chaired by John Burch.
“If there are good brokers out there, now is the time to stand up and be counted – to try to do something about the rogue element of the industry,” concluded Pat.
