As the American Bus Association approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026, we are entering this historic milestone with clarity, momentum, and a deep commitment to our members.
To kick off our centennial, we conducted a comprehensive audit of ABA’s membership value proposition, services, and programming. This wasn’t just an internal review—it was an opportunity to listen, learn, and build a future that reflects the evolving needs of our dynamic industry. The result is a sharper focus on what matters most to you, and a bold plan to expand ABA’s role as the leading voice and resource for group and motorcoach travel.
Our work is centered on four core pillars that define ABA’s strategic focus and deliver measurable value across the motorcoach and group travel industry. These pillars strengthen the foundation of what we do, while complementing the many programs and services our members know and rely on—such as our networking and employee resource councils, exclusive member discounts, and ongoing educational webinars and sessions:
1. ABA Policy Committee: Our advocacy engine—the leading voice for group and domestic travel—protecting and advancing the interests of our members in Washington and beyond. Powered by data from the ABA Foundation, this work is grounded in industry research that informs policy, strengthens our message, and positions motorcoach travel as essential to America’s transportation and tourism economy.
2. ABA Marketplace: Our annual sales conference remains the preeminent destination for qualified sales leads and domestic business development. It is where connections happen, and business gets done.
3. ABA Talent and Development Hub: Reimagined to meet today’s workforce needs, this platform supports driver recruitment and retention, professional training, and resources that help foster welcoming, high-performing workplaces across the industry.
4. ABA Bus Industry Safety Council: As the industry’s most important forum for safety, maintenance, and compliance, BISC sets the standard for operational excellence. By advancing best practices and elevating safety performance across the motorcoach sector, BISC helps ensure that tour operators, travel planners, and passengers can continue to choose motorcoaches with confidence.
To deliver these programs more effectively and expand the value we offer, we are investing in ABA’s digital infrastructure and brand identity. ABA’s new website, launching in early 2026, will offer improved functionality and a modern member experience. It’s part of a broader rebrand that honors our roots while positioning ABA for the next 100 years—from a place of strength and leadership within the $100 billion group and domestic travel industry.
ABA’s new website, launching in early 2026, will offer improved functionality and a modern member experience.
This work is the product of collaboration across ABA—shaped by our board of directors, council leaders, staff, and, most importantly, our members. Together, we are building an association that is more responsive, more connected, and more aligned with your goals than ever before.
We’re excited to share a sneak peek of our progress later this year and can’t wait to celebrate our centennial with all of you in 2026. Thank you for being part of this journey—and for driving ABA forward into its next century.
Sincerely,
FRED FERGUSON
President & CEO
[email protected]
