A New Chapter Begins: Greteman Family Acquires Lenzner Coach Lines
September 18, 2024, marks a new era for Lenzner Coach Lines, a company with a storied 85-year history in the motorcoach industry, as it transitions to new ownership under the Greteman Family. Known for their leadership in Windstar Lines, the Gretemans have built a stellar reputation in the motorcoach industry, and their acquisition of Lenzner from Coach USA signals exciting opportunities for the Pittsburgh-based bus line. This acquisition retains the Lenzner name and promises to honor the company’s rich legacy while bringing innovative improvements.
Lenzner Coach Lines, previously owned by Coach USA, has been a trusted name in the Pittsburgh region for decades. Offering services such as charter, tour, and airport transportation, the company has long been recognized for its reliability and excellence. However, after Coach USA filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June, Lenzner became part of an auctioned asset package. Windstar Lines, led by brothers Jeff, Scott, and Pat Greteman, alongside their sister Julie Mayhall, saw an opportunity to expand their business into a new market by acquiring Lenzner. The deal was facilitated by stalking-horse bidder Avalon Transportation, who designated the Greteman family as the buyer.
The acquisition includes Lenzner’s fleet of 45 buses, approximately 100 employees, and a mechanical shop previously dedicated to Megabus services. The Greteman family, headquartered in Carroll, Iowa, operates Windstar Lines, a company founded by their parents, Mike and Cathy Greteman, in 1995. Windstar has grown into a national motorcoach leader, operating more than 220 buses in 12 markets across the United States, including cities like Phoenix, Orlando, and Las Vegas.
Jeff Greteman expressed enthusiasm about the expansion into the Pittsburgh area, describing it as an exciting opportunity for Windstar. “We’re thrilled to be in a new geographic region, and we believe Lenzner’s history and reputation make it a perfect fit for us,” he said. The acquisition is about expanding geographical reach and maintaining the quality that has made Lenzner a household name. “We feel the Lenzner brand is essential to this acquisition,” Greteman added. “That’s why we’re committed to retaining the name and rebranding the fleet with a new logo.”
One of the most appealing aspects of the acquisition is the continued leadership of Roy Hoffman, general manager of Lenzner Lines, who has been with the company since 1990. Hoffman, who started his career as a bus driver in college, has grown with the company and is optimistic about its future under Greteman ownership. “We’re excited to join the Greteman family of companies. They share our commitment to quality and service, and I believe this new chapter will benefit our employees and customers,” said Hoffman.
Hoffman also emphasized that the motorcoach industry remains strong, with Lenzner buses continuing to travel across North America. Recent trips include charters to destinations as far as Montreal and Michigan. With plans to upgrade the fleet and expand operations, the future of Lenzner Lines looks bright.
As part of their investment in the company, the Gretemans have committed to purchasing new equipment and upgrading existing coaches. The rebranding process is already underway, and within a few months, customers will start seeing the newly branded Lenzner buses on the road.
The acquisition brings renewed energy to Lenzner Lines, promising to build on its 85-year legacy of excellence while preparing for the next 85 years. The combination of Windstar’s innovative approach and Lenzner’s established reputation makes for a powerful partnership that will benefit the company and its loyal customers.
