Reptons Coaches
The Challenge
Network Creative was approached by Reptons Coaches, who in 2011 had lost a number of school contracts in their area. They believed this was because they hadn’t understood the new e-tendering system introduced by their local authority, continuing to respond with just prices. In addition, Reptons wanted to re-enter the local bus market.
The local authority, in common with many others had recently introduced e-tendering and this included a quality assessment of key points based on the implementation and operation of the services to be provided. A line up of Reptons Coaches outside their garage in Bookham Network Creative worked with the Reptons, looking at how they would implement the bus services and developed some ‘added value’ elements to help promote the service immediately before and after introduction. These were then written into the quality submission as well as the general plans and service quality to be achieved. In addition, Network Creative were able to provide help with the functionality of the system, which was not the most user friendly system. It was important to Reptons that the bus service achieved the same service quality levels already achieved by the coach operation, which includes local football teams and other blue chip companies. The same local authority ran a further separate tendering exercise for their home to school contacts. The quality submission was similar, but had to be re-written in parts to ensure the different criteria for school contracts were met.
The 478 at Guildford Bus Station – photo by Conner Gates. A new bus is ordered for delivery in December
The conclusion
Reptons Coaches were successful in obtaining the bus service that they had targeted as part of the tender. Network Creative have also assisted with the implementation of the bus service, which commenced on 3rd September, setting up ticketing systems, concessionary travel reimbursement and BSOG claims.
In addition, three home to school contracts were awarded to commence in September – a much better result than 2011.
Network Creative is able to provide a range of expert services, advice and innovative solutions for small and medium sized passenger transport operators or local authorities. We offer a personal service which is both practical and affordable.