Krapf School Bus, the largest private school bus contractor in Pennsylvania, just got bigger.
The company acquired Hash Bus Company, LP of New Park, Pa., on June 15 for an undisclosed amount. Hash Bus was founded 50 years ago, which made the decision an “emotional” one, according to owner Barbara Hash.
“Our drivers are a part of our extended family and we wanted to look out for their best interest,” she said. “Selling to the Krapf organization was like joining another family.”
John Polli, vice president of Sun Mergers & Acquisitions, would not discuss terms of the deal or the number of Hash Bus employees who would be affected. But he added that Krapf expected to re-hire all bus drivers and support personnel.
“Barbara Hash was especially happy to be able to sell to the Krapf organization, a family business like hers that shares similar values and approaches to both customers and employees,” said Blake Krapf, president of Krapf School Bus. “We welcome the entire Hash staff to our growing family tree and are excited to get to know and service their community.”
Polli noted that Krapf currently serves the Northeastern School District near Pennsylvania’s southern border with Maryland that Hash Bus also works for, so the deal was a “perfect fit.” Krapf is expected to increase to 19 the number of routes operated for Northeastern School District, up from the 10 routes it previously operated.
Krapf was established nearly 70 years ago and operates more than 1,000 vehicles to serve a total of eight public school districts and more than 150 private and parochial schools. The company also operates motorcoaches, executive coaches and a towncar and limousine charter division.
