Rochdale-based bus manufacturer Mellor sees uptake in ‘size-appropriate’ buses

One of Mellor’s Tucana buses

Rochdale-based bus manufacturer Mellor, has emerged from recent Covid-19 lockdown restrictions in an optimistic mood as the company gears-up for future growth.

In response to increased demand for its ‘size-appropriate’ buses – a range of smaller vehicles with the flexibility to operate on diverse routes – Mellor has begun actively recruiting for key appointments at its Miall Street production facility and offices, including those for highly-skilled shop-floor positions.

Mellor also reports that a number of strategic product developments are scheduled for introduction in the medium term.

The passenger transport industry has been particularly hard hit during the coronavirus outbreak, with a number of bus and coach operators being forced to curtail services. Despite doubts existing of a return to previously normal passenger numbers, and amid extremely challenging market conditions, Mellor has seen a growth in demand for its size-appropriate vehicles as market trends shift amid varying economic constraints.

“We’re seeing genuine indications of a long-term commitment from our customers,” said Mellor General Manager, James Vince. “Production is ramped-up to near capacity and we’re recruiting for some key positions. Confidence is definitely returning and we’re looking forward to announcing some important product developments soon.”

Mr Vince continued: “Mellor is uniquely positioned to respond to the requirements of bus operators on established routes as they shift emphasis away from their more traditional 40-plus-seat vehicles. Our size-appropriate range of vehicles can make presently unviable routes, viable again – and especially for connecting communities on rural routes. Our range provides significantly lower capital outlay and reduced running costs, which are key differentiators from existing public transport models”

Mellor’s line-up of Strata, Orion, Tucana, Maxima and Pico buses are designed to satisfy the demands of a wide range of specific requirements, including low-floor, full-electric and accessible bus specifications. 

Mellor resumed manufacturing operations at its Rochdale manufacturing facility to full capacity in May, with all PPE measures in place. Since then, the company has maintained supply to customers throughout the UK in full accordance with government guidance on Covid-19 restrictions.