Premier Transportation continues its expansion with the acquisition of Chattanooga-based All Aboard USA’s charter business, bringing the Knoxville company’s total fleet to nearly 40 motor coaches stationed throughout East Tennessee.
“This pivotal expansion positions Premier as the leading provider of charter coaches in East Tennessee,” said Nick Cazana, Premier Transportation owner. “Having established offices in Greeneville and Knoxville, we viewed Chattanooga as a natural fit to allow us to better serve the region.”
The company’s new location will be known as Premier Transportation – Chattanooga, with the name change official on Tuesday. The operation initially will include five motor coaches and is expected to double in size over the next year. The additional office brings Premier’s total fleet of motor coaches to nearly 40 vehicles.
Two months ago, Premier Transportation provided the use of 20 motor coaches to transport 1,000 members of high school bands and JROTC groups from Chattanooga area schools to march in the Chattanooga Unite Armed Forces Parade on Sept. 16. The parade honored the five servicemen who were killed July 16 when a gunman opened fire at a military recruitment office and U.S. Navy Reserve Center in Chattanooga.
Randy Ingram, All Aboard owner and operator, has joined Premier Transportation to manage the Chattanooga location, which brings the Premier Transportation team to 85 employees.
All Aboard USA will maintain its tour business in the market. Tour locations include Atlanta; Charleston, SC; Nashville; New York City; and Washington, D.C., among others.
“We are impressed with Premier Transportation’s solid reputation,” said Mr. Ingram, who was a founding member of All Aboard USA. “We share the commitment to follow a strict set of ethical, financial and professional standards. I’m pleased to have this opportunity to offer even better service to our current customers and grow to reach a new customer base.”
“We are impressed with Premier Transportation’s solid reputation,” Mr.Ingram said. “We share the commitment to follow a strict set of ethical, financial and professional standards. I’m pleased to have this opportunity to offer even better service to our current customers and grow to reach a new customer base.”
The acquisition marks a trend of growth for Premier Transportation. In May 2014, the Premier merged with Greeneville, Tn.-based Greene Coach.
Premier’s priority of “Safety First” and an unwavering commitment to customer service will be the company standards in all locations, as will stringent equipment safety inspections, strict hiring policies for drivers and ongoing training requirements. Seatbelts, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV are among the safety benefits and amenities offered to groups using Premier coaches.