A small transport company has broadened its horizons following a takeover.

Worthing Coaches, based in George V Avenue, has been sold to Hampshire-based Lucketts Travel for an undisclosed sum after the previous owners retired.

Bosses at family-run Lucketts said all 11 jobs in Worthing were safe and signalled plans to expand the firm's UK and European route network.

Turnover at Worthing Coaches hit £1.8 million this year. The combined turnover of the new firm will be closer to £6 million, making it one of the largest companies of its kind in the region.

Steve Luckett, chief executive of Lucketts Travel, said: "When the previous owners approached us to sell the business because they were retiring, we saw a very impressive and well-run operation and the opportunity to use the synergy of both businesses to add greater value to the firm.

"We're not planning to make many changes and will be using our expertise to enhance the company's services to customers and give them even greater choice."

"We also want to grow the business and will be continuing a programme of investment already in place. It won't be long before customers of Worthing Coaches will be able to take advantage of our Platinum Service, which includes a door-to-door pick-up service and greater leg room."

Mark Willis, managing director of Worthing Coaches, added: "We're delighted to have joined Lucketts Travel and look forward to working with one of the best companies of its kind in the region.

Lucketts will add real value to our business and the benefits will be passed on to our loyal customers, and we will be able to offer more choice and a wider variety of holidays including airtours and trips further afield. We will also be able to share departures with existing Lucketts Travel routes."

The combined firm employs more than 70 staff including drivers, sales and administration workers, operations and engineering staff, and boasts a fleet of 42 coaches.

Thursday, December 8, 2005