Parrys adds extra coach to fleet as tour season comes into view
Coach tour operator Parrys International is adding an extra vehicle to its fleet to ensure all its 2013 holidays are delivered in what may be its final year of operation.
An announcement will be made in the next few weeks on the future of the Cheslyn Hay-based firm.
Owner Dave Parry originally announced in February that he planned to shut at the end of the year due to increasing regulation and spiralling costs. But he has since had a rethink after being inundated with messages from customers urging him to stay in business.
Mr Parry, who was 65 last month, said: "I hope to make a positive announcement in the next few weeks."
The former Wolves speedway rider and manager started the business 40 years ago, and it has grown to carry 25,000 passengers a year to destinations all over the UK and Europe and employ 35.
Despite planning to close, the 16th vehicle is starting operation in the Parrys International fleet next week.
It is needed as the tours operation swings into its busiest period of the year.
Parrys has not taken any bookings for next year but is delivering a full programme of tours and holidays this year, with Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Spain and Holland among the destinations.
The 50-seat MAN Neoplan Starliner coach has been made to Mr Parry's specifications in Germany and has been painted in the company's burgundy and gold livery. It is also to be entered in the 2012 UK Coach Rally which is being held this year at Alton Towers on April 20 and 21.
The fleet will be sold if Mr Parry decides not to carry on or sell the business in Landywood Green, which has an annual turnover of £5 million, to a new owner.
Parrys International is also official sponsor of Wolverhampton Speedway.
* A report in Saturday's Express & Star about Cradley Heath business Parry People Movers accidentally featured a photograph of Dave Parry. Mr Parry would like to make it clear that he has no connection with that business.
