As the new academic year approaches in Bahrain, school transport services are gearing up for a busy season with increased competition and a focus on online advertising. Bus drivers have reported a surge in registrations for school transport services since the beginning of August. Prices for these services vary depending on the distance to the school and the grade level, ranging from 15 Bahraini dinars for elementary schools located close to residential areas to 40 dinars for secondary schools. The intense competition has led to a slight decrease in prices, particularly with the influx of retired individuals joining the sector.
One driver from Nour Al Ghadir Transportation and Tourism highlighted his reliance on online advertising, posting numerous advertisements on social media platforms. His prices are based on distance, with a maximum of 20 dinars for secondary schools and 15 dinars for elementary and kindergarten. He also mentioned the challenges posed by parents requesting separate drop-off and pick-up times during final exams, which can be financially taxing for drivers. Another driver, Elias Ibrahim, confirmed that his prices range from 15 to 35 dinars, depending on the distance to the school. He attributed the price decrease to the increased competition in the past two years, with many retirees entering the field.
Jasem Abduli also emphasized the significant influx of retired individuals, including women, particularly from the private sector, who are under 50 years old. This influx has created fierce competition, stabilizing prices that were on the rise before the COVID-19 pandemic. School transport drivers are adapting to new trends in advertising and pricing strategies to cater to the needs of parents and students as the new academic year begins. With the increased competition in the sector, drivers are looking for new ways to stand out and attract customers.
In order to stay competitive, many drivers are focusing on online advertising and utilizing social media platforms to reach a wider audience. By posting advertisements and promotions online, drivers are able to connect with parents and students who are seeking reliable and affordable transportation options. Some drivers are also offering discounted rates for early registrations or multiple children from the same family, to incentivize families to choose their services. By adapting to these new advertising strategies, drivers are able to stay ahead in the competitive school transport sector in Bahrain.
Overall, the school transport sector in Bahrain is experiencing a competitive landscape, with drivers adapting to new trends in advertising and pricing strategies to cater to the needs of parents and students as the new academic year begins. With increased competition and the influx of retired individuals joining the field, drivers are finding new ways to attract customers and stand out in the market. By focusing on online advertising and offering competitive prices, school transport services in Bahrain are gearing up for a busy and competitive academic year ahead.
