The Saskatchewan Transportation Company (STC) released its 2009 Annual Report .Highlights include: A passenger satisfaction rating of 91 per cent; The addition of on-bus amenities such as free Wi-Fi to enhance passenger travel; Service extension to the communities of Green Lake, Canwood, Debden, Shellbrook, and Big River along the Prince Albert - La Loche route, operated by a private contractor; Strong support of Saskatchewan's economy, with 82 per cent ($10.5 million) of corporate purchases made in Saskatchewan; Results of the 2009 seat sale campaigns; and A ridership of 258,534 passengers.
"Our residents and businesses rely on STC to transport all passengers and freight to their appropriate destinations in a safe, timely and cost effective manner," Minister responsible for STC Jim Reiter said.
In 2009, STC carried 258,534 passengers and generated $15.7 million in passenger and parcel revenues, down from the $16.3 million generated in 2008. This was largely due to Greyhound-related impacts such as declines in routes and service frequency which greatly impacted STC's bottom line as the businesses are closely related.
However, several positives emerged in 2009.
STC had a satisfaction rating of 91 per cent from our passengers, up from 89 per cent in 2008. Furthermore, STC had success with the senior seat sale in September, showing a 227 per cent increase in senior ridership.
"Those are very encouraging signs going forward," Reiter said.
STC also focused on improving the perception of bus travel in 2009. The company enhanced the riding experience for its customers by adding amenities to its coaches such as extending leg room between seats, installing fold-down trays, and carrying Wi-Fi internet service along the Regina-Saskatoon route. Additionally, the environmental benefits of bus travel were emphasized to further promote ridership.
"One STC bus can displace the emissions of up to 55 regular passenger vehicles," Reiter said.
Acting President and CEO Shawn Grice indicated that 2010 will build on the inroads made in 2009.
"There will be a stronger push toward boosting ridership and increasing revenues based on what we learned from last year while still maintaining our strong commitment to excellent service," Grice said.
The 2009 STC Annual Report is available online at www.stcbus.com.
About STC The Saskatchewan Transportation Company is a provincial coach company that provides safe, affordable and accessible bus passenger and parcel express services to 290 Saskatchewan communities.
