Scotland's Independent Coach Operators

As with everything, the coach industry has changed beyond all recognition over the last few decades. In the past an operator would purchase a coach and run it for many years to get back their initial investment. More often than not lightweight chassis were purchased because of the lower purchase price. These could be changed every few years, keeping a modern look to the fleet. It was always more important in the coach industry to have the latest style. Things began to change in the 1960s as motorways were built and higher speeds were required. Vehicles were being worked harder and heavier chassis became more popular. Although the initial purchase price was much more expensive, they required less maintenance as components were stronger. The coach market was de-regulated from 1980, allowing express services to be run and some firms took advantage of this.