After more than 100 years of continued family ownership it is with great sadness and pride that we are announcing the closure of Shaws Coaches at the beginning of May 2025. Whilst we are incredibly proud of what we have achieved since Grandad Shaw bought his first charabanc with a small inheritance from a wealthy aunt, we are none of us getting any younger and, after 40 years of being on call almost 24/7, it’s time for the management team to retire and spend more time with friends and family.
As you might imagine, this has not been an easy decision. Shaws has been a part of our lives almost since the day when we were born. Through the years, there have been some hugely enjoyable times and we have made memories to cherish, but our overriding and abiding memories will be of our wonderfully loyal clients and staff, many of whom we are now proud to call great friends. Your continued support, through thick and thin, has been our proudest asset. Thank you.
We operated our very first holiday tour in April 1982 and after countless departures throughout the UK and Europe our 21st April departure to Torquay will be the very last Shaw’s holiday. As an aside, we’re particularly proud that the driver of that first tour is still with us and many of you will know what a huge contribution Les has made to the firm’s success over the years.
We have worked with many of our trading partners for a long time and are indebted to them for their support, which has been a key factor in helping us to deliver the best possible service to our clients. From the specialists who have helped to keep our vehicles on the road to the agents who support our hotels and theatre tickets, to the hardworking office cleaners, it’s been a pleasure working with you and we thank you all.
Our final thank you and huge appreciation is reserved for the dedicated people who have worked with us – past and present – without whom none of our achievements would have been possible. Behind the wheel, in the yard, under the bonnet, at the desk - you’ve all been amazing and so important to the success of Shaws. We can’t thank you enough.
Richard, Jane and Chris.
PS. We’ll close the doors and turn off the engines on Friday 2nd May, but until then, we’ll be proudly on the road. If you have time for a final farewell day trip or holiday we’d love to see you, there’s lots to choose from. We’re taking coach hire bookings up to April 30th and our 14th May theatre trip to Oliver will go ahead as planned, along with all the tours currently on sale. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
