It has been a momentous few weeks for Galway-based sister-companies, Executive Travel Solutions and Luxury Irish Tours, as the group has been shortlisted for seven categories at the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2026! Find out more here...
When Keith and Claire Spain co-founded their transport and touring brands in 2017 and 2019 (less than a decade ago), they were shaping a story of Irish pride, elegance, community and authenticity. From what began as a small family business in Loughrea, their present-day business operates as a national and international success story; from community transport and education services to nationwide luxury touring.
Executive Travel Solutions / Luxury Irish Tours has been shortlisted for several major awards, including:
Bus Operator (More than 10 Vehicles)
Coach Operator – Tour Organiser & Coach Provider
Women In Public Transport
Coach Operator – Town/City & Local Link Provider
School Bus Operator
Coach Operator – Tours
Best Livery & Corporate Identity
The nominations recognise not only the strength of the fleet and service but also the passion, innovation and commitment that drive their team of 80+ members of drivers, office staff, guides, mechanics and family who take immense pride in representing the company around the country every day. Each nomination reflects a different area of expertise, yet they are all underpinned by the same philosophy of professionalism, reliability, safety and authentic Irish hospitality.
The fleet of 90+ vehicles includes luxury coaches, executive minibuses, wheelchair-accessible and special-needs adapted vehicles, as well as V-Class, Sprinters and chauffeur cars. Every vehicle is systematically maintained, with regular servicing and daily checks carried out in the company’s own in-house garage. Many are fitted with modern comforts such as reclining leather seating, Wi-Fi, mood lighting, lounge areas and on-board WCs to ensure passengers enjoy the highest standard of comfort on every journey.
An Irish Vision Recognized: Women In Transport Award 2026
In 2018, Claire Spain introduced the new Luxury Irish Tours brand into the international luxury travel market. This was no easy task, but Claire, with her devoted team, very quickly built trust in her brand and its promise by focusing on two defining deliverables - 1) exceptional quality and 2) a deeply personal service – and her leadership, vision and impact have not gone unnoticed at home in Ireland.
This year, Claire has been shortlisted for the prestigious Women in Public Transport Award at the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2026, recognising her role in shaping one of Ireland’s most admired travel brands via Luxury Irish Tours. The Fleet Bus & Coach Awards winners will be announced on 13th November during a luxury gala event at Johnstown Estate, County Meath.
This nomination reflects her commitment to raising, and even challenging, industry standards, her dedication to empowering her team, and her ability to pair luxury with authenticity in every private and personal journey delivered across the island of Ireland. From her roots in Loughrea to showcasing the very best of Ireland on an international stage, Claire’s story stands as proof that passion, courage, and a grá for genuine Irish hospitality can turn a local Galway girl’s vision into a global success.
Tap the links to find out more about the award nominations for Luxury Irish Tours and Executive Travel Solutions.
