CMAC Group enters partnership with Coach Hire Comparison
Managed ground transport specialist CMAC Group has entered a strategic partnership with Coach Hire Comparison, acquiring 51% of the business.
The strategic move will see CMAC integrate Coach Hire Comparison into its existing business, utilising existing resources and technology to accelerate growth in the UK while supporting CMAC Group’s international expansion plans. This move offers CMAC Group further diversification of services and added resilience, delivering a combined turnover of £150m-plus.
This is the second acquisition that CMAC Group has made in recent months, following their purchase of Suntransfers, one of Europe’s largest airport transfer companies, in September 2022.
Coach Hire Comparison was founded in 2010, offering customers a convenient way to source multiple quotes from independent operators. Every month over 12,000 users hit their website, coachhirecomparison.co.uk, to begin their search for low-cost coach hire solutions. Utilising purpose-built technology, the site connects customers with around 300 minibus and coach operators across the UK.
“We’re excited to join forces with CMAC Group, doing so allows us to accelerate our growth…” – James Stokes, Joint Managing Director of Coach Hire Comparison
James Stokes, Joint Managing Director of Coach Hire Comparison, said: “We’re excited to join forces with CMAC Group, doing so allows us to accelerate our growth and continue to develop our bespoke booking platform to further enhance the experience for both customers and coach operators.”
“This strategic move aligns with our vision for growth and strengthens our position in the market” – Peter Slater, CEO of CMAC Group
Peter Slater, CEO of CMAC Group, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Coach Hire Comparison’s team, James and Laura, into the CMAC Group. This strategic move aligns with our vision for growth and strengthens our position in the market.”
The acquisition follows a period of continued growth for CMAC Group, with the business reporting a 45% increase in revenue and 7% headcount growth in 2022, in a year which saw the firm transport more than 2.5 million travellers.
Coach Hire Comparison’s two-person team, James and Laura Stokes, will remain at the helm of the coach price comparison and booking website.