Minnesota Coaches, a transportation provider based in Hastings, has announced its acquisition of Spanier Bus Service, a long-standing school bus operator in the St. Cloud area. This move, finalized before the current school year, expands Minnesota Coaches' operations across Minnesota and Wisconsin while ensuring continued service for St. Cloud residents.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota Coaches acquired Spanier Bus Service, a St. Cloud-based company.
- The deal ensures continued school bus services for the St. Cloud Area School District.
- Spanier Bus Service will retain its name, facility, and all local staff.
- Tami Spanier, the previous owner, will assist with the transition and may drive occasionally.
- This acquisition strengthens Minnesota Coaches' presence in central Minnesota.
A Smooth Transition for St. Cloud Students and Staff
The acquisition came about after Tami Spanier, who had owned and operated Spanier Bus Service for 45 years, decided to retire. She approached Minnesota Coaches at the end of the last school year, seeking a buyer who would maintain the high standards of service for the St. Cloud community. The agreement was completed shortly before the current academic year began.
Tom Nightingale, CEO of Minnesota Coaches, emphasized the importance of a seamless handover. "We wanted to ensure a seamless transition both for the teammates... and the students," he stated. "It was just critical that we try to get things wrapped up and make sure the beginning of the school year was exactly where everybody would have wanted it to be."
Company History
- Spanier Bus Service was founded in 1957.
- It has been a family-owned business since its inception.
- Minnesota Coaches was founded in 1959 and is also family-owned.
Spanier Bus Service will continue its operations under its existing name. The facility at 1310 Sunridge Dr. in St. Cloud will remain open. Crucially, all local drivers, mechanics, and office staff will keep their jobs. The company is also actively hiring new employees to support its ongoing services.
Commitment to Local Service and Employees
Tami Spanier expressed her confidence in Minnesota Coaches to uphold the company's legacy.
"The best part of my day has been behind the wheel of a school bus. I love being out with our kids," Spanier said in a press release. "It was very important to me that I pass the torch to a company we can trust to serve our communities well, and Minnesota Coaches was a great choice. Our family legacy and the students who depend on us every day are in good hands."
Ms. Spanier plans to actively assist with the transition process. She will also continue to work as a driver on an occasional basis, maintaining her connection to the students and the community she has served for decades.
Nightingale acknowledged the emotional aspect for owners of long-standing family businesses when they step away. He reiterated Minnesota Coaches' commitment to a smooth transition for both Ms. Spanier and the St. Cloud Area School District. "The team there has been fantastic, and I think that making this transition smoothly is a tribute to them," he commented. "Tammy ran a great business, and the district has been fantastic to work with, and if it's not broken, don't fix it."
St. Cloud Area School District
The St. Cloud Area School District covers an expansive 250 square miles. Spanier Bus Service is one of several transportation companies that provide essential services to students within this large district. The continuity of service is vital for daily school operations.
Expanding a Statewide Network
Minnesota Coaches itself is a family-owned business, established in 1959. The company offers a wide range of transportation services. These include private charters, corporate travel solutions, and trips for sports teams. The company also operates motor coaches in the Twin Cities area and Fergus Falls.
According to Tom Nightingale, the acquisition of Spanier Bus Service adds a strategically important location. It creates a key connection point between the company's existing operations. This expansion helps to create a more integrated and efficient network across the state.
The school bus fleet of Minnesota Coaches now includes Spanier Bus Service. This fleet already features other notable bus services across Minnesota. These include Monarch Bus Service in Minneapolis and Voyageur Bus Company in Duluth. This latest acquisition reinforces Minnesota Coaches' position as a leading transportation provider in the region. The company's growth strategy focuses on integrating established, reputable local services into its broader network, ensuring consistent quality and reliability for communities.
