Pearces of Oxford, a family-run business started almost 50 years ago, welcomed a pristine, state-of-the-art Cheetah XL-bodied Mercedes-Benz Atego into its fleet this week, taking investment in new Plaxton coaches to over £1m in the past 18 months.
The extended line-up has included a Leopard bodied-Volvo B9, two Euro 6 Panther bodied-Volvo B8R, a Panther Cub and the new Cheetah XL. The latter, a 32-seat, 230hp vehicle, comes complete with toilet facilities, leather seats and Mercedes-Benz Powershift automated transmission.
Managing Director Martin Pearce is confident that his revitalised, broadened range of vehicles has played a significant role in an upsurge in business.
He commented: “We have definitely seen an increase in business this year, both in private hire and corporate work – and our new Plaxton coaches have played a big part in that success.
“At the end of the day, many things contribute to a successful business and I like to think that we have a reputation for quality and class-leading service. We have a team of great people working for us, ranging from sales personnel to transport planners and drivers.
“We have also tried to stay ahead of the curve in terms of anticipating market trends and in my opinion, it is clear that people who travel in well-equipped luxury cars on a regular basis now expect the same when it comes to coach hire.
“Over 80% of our business is corporate work, private hires, contracts with distinguished schools and the university, and tours to venues such as Blenheim Palace, hence the reason that all of our new acquisitions have been high-specification vehicles.”
Martin added: “Our fleet is now virtually 100% Plaxton coaches and the reasons for that are very straightforward. They are focused on quality design, engineering and production; the right product has always been there at the right time; and the deal has always been right. Apart from these superb credentials, we have always been impressed by their outstanding parts and service support. What more could you ask for?”
