Coach operator’s new facility is just the ticket

13 October 2015

Business is rolling in for a Manchester-based coach operator following the opening of its new specialist coach and HGV MOT service centre.

Established in 1976, Goodwins Coaches provides a full range of services including public transport, excursions, holiday packages, vintage coach hire, and now vehicle servicing.

With funding from Yorkshire Bank, Goodwins purchased and developed a £650,000 PSV, HGV, class 4,5 and 7 MOT testing station in Eccles, North Manchester.

As well as maintaining their own fleet of vehicles, the new facility will service the fleets of other local transport providers.

A number of skilled jobs have been created by the development, including specialist technicians to look after Manchester’s ever-expanding fleet of hybrid buses.

The station is set up to handle between 40 and 50 vehicles per week, making it the biggest facility of its kind in the region.

Goodwins has held a lucrative contract with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) since 2001.

The company then purchased an executive coach with rear lounge for over £450k with funding from Yorkshire Bank. The top of the range vehicle is currently being used to transport the Australian cricket team around the country as part of the Ashes tour.

Wes Goodwin, Managing Director of Go Goodwins, said: “My grandparents and father started the company in 1976, so we have almost 40 years expertise in the family. We are still evolving as a company, and this latest development is a great example of the direction we’re heading in.

“Servicing vehicles from other transport providers is an exciting new extension of our operations and a key area of growth for the business.

“We welcome the support of Yorkshire Bank which has taken the time to understand the way we work and has helped us to start working towards realising our long term ambitions.”

Ian Walkden, Head of Commercial and Small Business Banking for Yorkshire Bank in the West of England, said: “As a long standing customer Goodwins Coaches are an excellent example of a company with a solid business plan and vision for the future.

“We are delighted to support Wes and his team, and look forward to continuing our strong relationship.”

Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks has strengthened its support for UK SMEs by becoming the first to partner with the British Business Bank under its ENABLE Guarantees scheme. Up to £125m of new lending by Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks will help more small businesses achieve their growth ambitions.