Airporter has moved into purpose-built premises in Londonderry that have been established to support its growing minicoach operation to the two Belfast airports, which has seen passenger numbers double in recent years.
The £1m investment has delivered a 14,000sq ft hub on a 2.5 acre site on the Springtown Industrial Estate that was once the home of bus operator Lough Swilly. Facilities on the site include fuelling, maintenance and washing along with areas for driver breaks and training.
Says Director Jennifer McKeever: “This investment represents a real statement of intent for us at Airporter. Our expansion reflects our success and the growth in passenger numbers.”
The company was established in 1996 with two vehicles. It now has 21 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter minicoaches, operating 30 journeys per day to the Belfast airports. Passenger numbers have grown to 155,000 per annum, adds Mrs McKeever.
“We now have a purpose-built facility fitted out to provide our team with a working environment that reflects the volume of business that we do. It shows that, as a company, we’re always looking towards the future and that we are always looking to do better.
“This investment will allow Airporter to handle anticipated future growth in demand, and it also represents a considerable investment in human resources.”
Previously, Airporter invested heavily in digital technology, allowing passengers to book tickets 24 hours a day from anywhere. Almost all of its customers now book online.
