Sander Kaplan, founder and president of A. Candies Coachworks, Gainesville, FL.
Barry Hines, general manager, Ameritrans Bus, Inc., comes to the company with over 30 years in the bus industry.
SOLVING TOMORROW’S SANITATION PROBLEMS TODAY!
#1 GREEN CHOICE REVOLUTIONARY NEW
DYNA-BACT
Liquefies waste & tissue Cleans tank system Unmatched proven performance Dramatic savings on dumping fees Convenient toss in pack ODOR CONTROL GUARANTEED!
TOP MOP Concentrated Floor /Surface Cleaner Economical Superior Fragrance Industrial Strength GUARANTEED PERFORMANCE!
BUS WASH
M5000 Toilet Deodorizer High Traffic, High Heat Superior Odor Control Increased Color, Fragrance & Actives Formaldehyde Free Super Concentrate Formula
For Variety of Road-Related Soils & Stains Attacks Dust, Mud, Diesel Exhaust Pleasant Citrus Scent Safe for automated systems
model choices they have are the most closely related to the needs of their customers.” Hines says because Ameritrans products are more expensive than other brands, it is easier for potential buyers to see and understand the difference in pricing. “Without the bus on hand to test drive and experience, a dealer has a more difficult time explaining why the higher price exists,” he says. “In the broadbrush look across the country, we are seeing an even mix between the smaller and larger models they are choosing to keep in stock.” He says it is fairly evenly balanced with the 28-foot to 39-foot models accounting for the core business. “In addition to the standard charter and shuttle applications, we are starting to see motorcoach charter tour operators sizing up the new Ameritrans models,” Hines says. “The larger F and R series are catching on.” Hines says the company is also receiving inquiries for specialty applications requiring 4X4 drive. “This would be for operators needing something just a little more rugged to handle the conditions,” he says. “It might be used in mining and construction companies, or winter resorts with snowy roads.” He says the company is already working on a few orders, which they will begin on this summer. Though not the largest, churches are turning out to be an important market niche for Ameritrans, due mostly to active dealerships such as Carpenter Bus, Franklin, TN, and Davey Coach, Sedlia, CO. The company estimates that the church market currently represents about 5 to 7 percent of its sales, but expects this niche to grow. “The bigger churches throughout the country are looking at premium buses for group transport,” Hines says. “We have some delivered, and some high-end units currently on the line that are going to churches.” An upshot to all of this, DeMarco says is that Ameritrans is enjoying quite a bit of repeat business. “If this is due to a cycle, this year we seem to be on the upward swing,” he says. “Manufacturers will typically see a large influx of orders as buses reach the end of their life cycles. “The average life cycle for most small buses is about five years,” he says. “The new models with all the improvements in design and engineering will most likely stretch to 10 years.”
Experience the Monochem difference today call us 512-267-5190 or visit us at www.worldwidemonochem.com
20
BUSRIDE | MARCH.2014
busride.com