Well-known local coach company Sid Fogg's has been sold to a international travel operator, joining the enterprise that also owns Greyhound Australia.
New Zealand company Entrada Travel Group purchased the local coach company, which has been transporting Hunter residents across the nation for nearly 70 years.
The famous Sid Fogg's name that has ferried Knights fans to games and students on school excisions will remain, as a new company - Sid Fogg's Australia - was formed to purchase the business.
In a statement, owners Graham and Kath Habgood said Entrada Travel Group had plans to expand the size and reach of their newly acquired coach company.
The business was established in 1957, with two generations of Foggs helming the operation over three decades. The Habgood bought the company in 1989 and have been running the show ever since.
Entrada Travel Group is owned by the Ritchie family, who are giants in the New Zealand transportation industry.
The family established Ritchies Bus & Coach Company in 1972, and became the largest privately owned bus and coach operator in the country, with a fleet of 1600 vehicles and 42 depots.
In 2021, the business was purchased by the global investment firm KKR for approximately $500 million NZD ($455m AUD).
Entrada owns a range of transport and tourism brands in Australia and New Zealand, including Greyhounds Australia, and ferries in Noosa and the Daintree River.
The Habgoods said they were "enormously proud" of what they had achieved during their 35 years owning Sid Fogg's.
Although they are looking forward to their well-earned retirement, they will work with the new owners for a period to ensure a smooth transition, while Katie and Michael Habgood will remain with the company.
"Sid Fogg's new owners are committed to continuing the service, safety and reliability of the Newcastle coach operation and they have some new plans in the pipeline to grow this well-known and highly-respected company," the statement said.
"Graham and Kathy are very proud of their staff, high-quality administrative team, skilled workshop staff and wonderful drivers, and it is hoped that all will transfer to Sid Foggs Australia to continue in providing service, reliability and safety to Sid Fogg's many clients.
"The Habgoods have appreciated and valued the service and support of many suppliers in the Newcastle and wider regions. Many long standing relationships and friendships have been formed over the past 35 years."
