Bank of Scotland helps luxury coach operator tee up growth as golf tourism booms

Bank of Scotland helps luxury coach operator tee up growth as golf tourism booms

St Andrews Executive Travel – the only coach operator based in the home of golf – is accelerating growth following significant investment from Bank of Scotland.

Founded 33 years ago by Gordon Donaldson, the family-run business has grown from one coach to a 50-strong luxury fleet. Specialising in golf tourism, it welcomes thousands of visitors from around the world each year, delivering bespoke tours across Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland for tour operators.

The Bank of Scotland funding package has supported the acquisition of new premises, enabling the business to almost double its site footprint in St Andrews. This expansion will help the business increase its operational capacity by around 70%, creating additional garage and workshop space to boost repair and maintenance services.

The funding also covers the construction of new office facilities and purpose-built accommodation for drivers who undertake extended tours across the UK - including routes from Land’s End to John O’Groats - ensuring they have comfortable, dedicated space to rest after their journeys.

An Asset Finance Loan was included as part of the funding package to enable the firm to purchase eight new vehicles, further strengthening its fleet to meet growing demand. The partnership with Bank of Scotland is also paving the way for future growth, with plans to extend tours internationally to the south of Ireland and expand in-house repair and bodywork services.

Golf tourism has grown sharply in recent years, with tours rising from 420 in 2019 to more than 600 in 2025. With The Open Championship returning to St Andrews in 2027, the company is well placed to welcome more international visitors and train new drivers to meet demand.

The company has earned its reputation for high-end, comfortable travel. Each coach is customised in-house with USB charging points, fridges and onboard Wi-Fi. Alongside golf tours, it supports schools, sports teams, weddings and local events during the winter months.

Fraser Green, director and accounts manager at St Andrews Executive Travel, said: “Golf put us on the map, but it’s our people and our coaches that keep us moving forward.

“This investment from Bank of Scotland gives us the space to keep improving – whether that’s expanding our workshop, taking on more staff or just making sure every customer steps off our coaches with a smile.

“I’m so proud of what we’ve built, from a family business with one coach to looking at international expansion, and I’m looking forward to seeing what lies ahead.”

Louise Fraser, relationship manager at Bank of Scotland, said: “The team at St Andrews Executive Travel have grown the business into a brilliant Scottish success story.

“They’ve invested in quality, kept a clear focus on customer experience and built a fleet that’s second to none. We’re proud to support their next chapter and help them keep delivering for visitors from around the world.”

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