Stagecoach Bluebird has been awarded a Royal Warrant of Appointment by HM King Charles III. It is in recognition of the operator’s longstanding supply of coach hire services to Balmoral Estate in Aberdeenshire.
The three-year Warrant also highlights Stagecoach’s strong ties to Scotland’s heritage, the group notes. It was founded by Ann Gloag and her brother Brian Souter – later Dame Ann and Sir Brian – in Perth in 1980 and remains headquartered in that city.
Award of a Royal Warrant of Appointment serves as a mark of quality for companies that have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household, and which observe the highest standards.
On the most recent list of Royal Warrant of Appointment holders, Stagecoach Bluebird sits alongside Westway Coach Services of West Molesey as the only representatives of the coach and bus industry.
Such an appointment permits both operators to use the Royal Coat of Arms in connection with their businesses. Warrants are granted for up to five years.
Speaking about the award, Stagecoach North Scotland Managing Director David Beaton says: “This is a moment of immense pride for all of us at Stagecoach Bluebird.
“To receive a Royal Warrant from His Majesty The King is an honour that reflects the dedication and professionalism of our team in the North East. We are especially proud to continue serving Balmoral Estate – a cherished part of Scotland’s national identity.”
There are over 800 Royal Warrant holders, with all transactions between those parties and Royal Household being carried out on a strictly commercial basis.