The Key to their Success is found in the Details Written by Mary Savage | Photographed by Bookstrucker Photography
W
hen Judy and Willi Mair started Sunshine Coach in 1999, they already had a decade of experience in the transportation industry from offering limousine and van service. When a friend suggested they purchase a retired Greyhound passenger bus, it seemed like a natural fit. They sold the limo, established Sunshine Coach and they’ve never looked back. “During our first summer, we found the right work which kept us very busy: running charters for many of the businesses in Calgary along with school outings,” recalls Willi Mair, operations manager. A short time later, they secured the transportation contract with a major ski hill resort to transport skiers to and from the ski hill and city. “We got the contract because we were a small, ‘hands on’ company and we looked after
more than just transportation,” adds Judy Mair, owner. “The ski resort wanted to establish a partnership with a company that could provide the total package, which included reservations, selling bus and/or lift tickets and, of course the transportation; and in 15 years that hasn’t changed.” Five years ago, they were awarded another major ski resort contract – driving skiers to and from the hill – and it’s very similar to their other resort agreement. “It’s a real partnership when you work with the ski hills,” adds Judy. Today, Sunshine Coach is a thriving business with a fleet of 10 coaches that range in passenger capacity from 21 to 60 people. The have carved out a well-respected niche in the transportation industry that services ski hills, corporate events, sporting groups, schools, tourism and charters.
Sunshine Coach | 15 Years | 1
83