The Coach Travel Group Launches 2026 ESG Strategy to Lead the UK in Responsible, Low-Carbon Travel

The Coach Travel Group has announced the launch of its 2026 Sustainability (ESG) Strategy, a comprehensive three-year roadmap outlining how the organisation will reduce emissions, operate responsibly, invest in its people, communities and strengthen governance across all companies within the Group.

Built on the Plan–Do–Check–Act improvement cycle, the strategy establishes a unified sustainability framework that supports The Coach Travel Group’s commitment to safe, efficient and low-carbon mobility.

Coach travel is already one of the UK’s lowest-carbon forms of transport and, with rising expectations from customers, regulators and partners, The Coach Travel Group believes it has a major opportunity to lead the sector in low-emission mobility, safety, social value and responsible governance.

The strategy outlines the Group’s environmental plan, focusing on key initiatives to reduce emissions and improve operational sustainability. Over the coming years, The Coach Travel Group will continue investing in modern, compliant vehicles to replace older, higher-emission coaches, helping to create a cleaner and more efficient fleet across all operations.

Across the Group, 55 new modern vehicles have already been introduced, featuring improved engine efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions. These investments have enabled the replacement of some of the least fuel-efficient vehicles in the fleet, improving the overall environmental performance of operations.

The Group has also begun introducing electric vehicles, with 10 EVs currently operating across its businesses. Each electric double-decker bus saves an average of 61 tonnes of carbon annually, contributing to a reduction of almost 20,000 tonnes of carbon emissions every year. The Group is also exploring the potential addition of two electric minibuses at Stewarts later in 2026, subject to contract confirmation.

To further support emissions reduction, The Coach Travel Group uses Samsara vehicle telematics technology to monitor fleet performance and identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary engine idling and improve fuel efficiency. The system also allows engineering teams to proactively identify engine or emissions issues, enabling preventative maintenance that keeps vehicles running efficiently while reducing environmental impact.

Sustainable infrastructure upgrades, responsible procurement practices and robust end-of-life vehicle management will also support the Group’s long-term environmental goals. To track progress, The Coach Travel Group will implement ISO 14001-aligned environmental management systems and monitor Scope 1–3 emissions in line with the GHG Protocol, ensuring measurable improvements across its environmental footprint.

The strategy also places strong emphasis on people and workplace wellbeing. The Coach Travel Group is committed to supporting the health, safety and development of its employees through a new HR system designed to track training, skills development and career progression. Inclusive and respectful workplaces will be promoted in line with ISO 45003 guidance and recognised best practice in diversity, equity and inclusion.

Employee wellbeing initiatives, gender pay gap monitoring and programmes to support underrepresented groups will be complemented by community engagement, including local sourcing, volunteering and social value initiatives.

Customer experience is another key pillar of the strategy. The Coach Travel Group has introduced Feefo to capture verified passenger feedback and is developing new websites across its brands, featuring integrated surveys and feedback tools. A dedicated customer experience role has also been created to drive a Group-wide strategy focused on accessibility, service quality and passenger satisfaction.

Governance will be strengthened through the appointment of ESG leads across the organisation, integration of ESG KPIs into executive performance reviews, and supplier audits covering ethical and environmental compliance. Additional measures include anti-bribery and whistleblowing policies, Cyber Essentials Plus certification, business continuity planning, benchmarking through Sustainable Advantage and the publication of annual ESG Impact Reports to ensure transparency and accountability.

Mark Hodgson, Managing Director at Coatham’s and spokesperson for The Coach Travel Group’s ESG Strategy, said:

“As we move into 2026, our new ESG Strategy represents a significant step forward for both The Coach Travel Group and the wider coach sector.

It establishes a clear and consistent sustainability framework across all our companies, strengthening our commitment to responsible operations, lower emissions and long-term growth.

Our focus is not only on delivering cleaner and safer travel, but also on supporting our colleagues, investing in modern infrastructure and ensuring we continue to lead the industry in sustainable mobility. Customers, employees and community partners rightly expect high standards, and this strategy ensures we continue to deliver them.”

By supporting colleagues with enhanced wellbeing, training and career development, The Coach Travel Group is strengthening operational excellence while maintaining the highest standards of service for its customers. These initiatives, combined with modernised processes, improved operational tools and a culture of continuous improvement, underpin the Group’s commitment to safe, efficient and sustainable travel across all its brands.