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The Beginning: A Single Minibus
In 1995, founder Neil Chapman launched Orbit, then trading as “Orbit Minibus Services”, with one 11-seater minibus operating airport transfers and day trips around Leicester. His vision was simple: offer reliable, friendly transport in and around Leicestershire, treating each journey like a family outing.
Early Growth & Second Vehicle
By the late 1990's, Orbit added a second vehicle, an LDV Convoy, and began to expand its operations beyond basic transfers. The name “Orbit” was chosen to reflect movement, travel and the ambition to grow.
From Minibuses to Coaches
Recognising the need to move into larger-group transport, Neil and his son Lee Chapman began acquiring full-size vehicles. Their first major coach purchase was a 77-seat former Leyland Titan, signalling the company’s shift from mere minibus hire to full-scale coach operations.
Son, Lee Chapman joined the family business
After gaining hands-on experience with another local coach company, Lee Chapman returned to join his father Neil at Orbit Coaches. Already holding his PCV licence, Lee brought fresh energy and practical skills to the business - helping in the garage, maintaining vehicles, and supporting daily operations.
Introducing the first Double Decker to the fleet
That same year, father and son invested in their first double-decker coach, marking a turning point for Orbit. Lee began taking a more active role in management and growth, laying the foundations for the company’s continued success under the next generation of the Chapman family.
Relocation & Leadership Transition
In 2011 the business moved to a larger site in north-west Leicestershire to accommodate its growing fleet. At the same time, Lee took on greater leadership responsibility, working alongside Neil to manage the company’s operations.
A New Generation Steps In
In early 2014, Neil officially retired from daily operations, handing the baton to Lee and the broader Chapman family, including sister Amy and brother Andy, who were increasingly involved in the business. This family succession ensured the company stayed true to its roots while adapting for future growth.
Son, Andy Chapman joined the family business
On 1 September 2015, Andy Chapman became the next member of the Chapman family to join Orbit Coaches. Like his brother Lee, Andy brought valuable experience from another local coach company, giving him strong foundations in both passenger service and vehicle operations.
He began his time at Orbit as a driver, quickly becoming known for his professionalism, reliability and customer-focused approach. Over time, Andy transitioned into the office, taking on more responsibility behind the scenes and developing his skills in planning, logistics and fleet coordination.
Today, Andy is Orbit Coaches’ Operations Manager, overseeing daily scheduling, driver management and the smooth running of services across Leicester and Leicestershire - playing a key role in the continued growth and stability of the business.
Daughter, Amy Chapman joined the family business
In 2015, Amy Chapman became the next member of the Chapman family to join Orbit Coaches, bringing fresh ideas and a strong administrative background to the business.
Amy’s role focused on the office and customer service side of operations, where she quickly made an impact. Her organisational skills, attention to detail and natural ability to connect with customers helped shape the office environment into a more streamlined, efficient and welcoming space.
During her time at Orbit, Amy introduced a number of new processes and improvements that continue to benefit the team today. Her creativity and forward-thinking approach played a valuable part in developing the professional office setup that supports the company’s growth.
The Start Of In-House Servicing
By 2019, Orbit Coaches had reached a stage where bringing vehicle maintenance in-house became both necessary and beneficial. Until this point, all servicing and mechanical work had been fully outsourced, which limited flexibility as the fleet continued to grow.
The move to the Peckleton site marked a major turning point. With more space and improved facilities, Orbit invested in creating a dedicated on-site workshop, allowing the team to maintain vehicles to an even higher standard and respond more quickly to operational needs.
Today, the garage is run by three skilled mechanics, with Lee also taking an active role in workshop operations. This shift to in-house servicing has strengthened safety, efficiency and reliability across the entire fleet, a key part of Orbit’s commitment to quality and long-term investment in the business.
The ‘Big Move’ To Our Peckleton Site
By 2019 the fleet size and complexity required an upgraded facility. The move to a new site in Enderby initially provided more space, but by December 2019 Orbit relocated to its current site in Peckleton, enabling the development of an in-house maintenance facility including vehicle lift, brake roller test and smoke test equipment. This investment underlines the company’s commitment to reliability and safety.
Navigating Challenges & Strengthening Private Hire
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Orbit’s strong foundations enabled it to pivot smartly. With rail-replacement contracts and key-worker transport, the company stayed active and ultimately doubled down on its private-hire business as a core area of growth.
Wilf Joins the Orbit Family
In May 2021, Orbit welcomed a new team member; Wilf, the much-loved Labrador who quickly became part of daily life at the Peckleton office. Friendly, gentle and always ready to greet visitors, Wilf brought a warm and uplifting energy to the workplace.
He soon became a familiar face to staff, drivers and even customers dropping by. Whether supervising from his favourite spot or providing morale boosts during busy days, Wilf has been a valued member of the Orbit family ever since.
Modern Fleet, Family Focus & Future ambitions
Today Orbit Coaches boasts a modern mix of luxury coaches and buses, remains proudly family-run, Lee, Tory, Megan and Andy Chapman, and continues to invest in technology and fleet renewal, with plans to purchase a new coach each year. The company remains rooted in Leicester & Leicestershire, delivering friendly yet professional service built on over 30 years of heritage.
Investment in Electric Vehicles
In June 2024, Orbit Coaches took an important step towards a greener future with the introduction of two brand-new electric vans to the fleet. This investment reflects the company’s long-term commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while continuing to deliver high-quality, reliable service to customers across Leicester and Leicestershire.
The eco-friendly vehicles support day-to-day operations and allow the team to carry out essential tasks with lower emissions and greater efficiency. As Orbit continues to grow, sustainability remains a key focus, and these electric vans mark the beginning of further plans to modernise and future-proof the fleet.
Megan Chapman Joins the Business
In mid-2024, Megan Chapman officially joined Orbit Coaches after studying Primary School Teaching at university. While completing her course, she had been working part-time at Orbit, discovering a genuine passion for the business and the pace of the transport industry.
Megan chose to continue her journey with the family business full-time and has already made a meaningful impact. She has introduced a number of new systems and office processes, helping to modernise workflows and support Orbit’s continued growth. Her blend of fresh perspective, organisation and enthusiasm has become an important part of shaping Orbit’s future direction.
Loki Joins the Orbit Family
In early 2025, Orbit gained its second office dog; Loki, a lively and affectionate Dobermann puppy. Bursting with character and quickly adored by the team, Loki brought fun, energy and plenty of entertainment to the office.
Together with Wilf, Loki completes Orbit’s site security detail, greeting staff and visitors alike and adding to the warm, family-focused atmosphere that defines the company.
Launch of Leading Travel
On 1 November 2025, Orbit Coaches proudly celebrated the launch of Leading Travel, a brand-new venture created by Megan and Freddie, marking an exciting new chapter for the wider Orbit family.
Leading Travel offers a range of fun, comfortable and memorable day trips across the UK, built on the same friendly service, reliability and family values that Orbit Coaches is known for. With fresh ideas, modern planning and a vibrant new brand, the pair are set to bring an exciting programme of trips to customers across Leicester and beyond.
The entire Orbit team is delighted to support Megan and Freddie as they take this next step. From seaside days out to seasonal experiences and special excursions, Leading Travel promises a lineup of brilliant trips that reflect their passion for travel and dedication to great customer care.
Team Orbit Supports Men’s Health
On 4 November 2025, the Orbit Coaches team kicked off a month-long initiative to raise awareness and funds for men’s health, proudly taking part in a charity moustache-growing challenge.
Throughout November, team members grew their best moustaches to support PROSTAID, a remarkable local Leicester charity providing vital help to men and families affected by prostate cancer.
The campaign invited customers, friends and the local community to get involved, whether by growing a ’stache, sharing a selfie or making a donation through the team’s JustGiving page. Every contribution helped make a difference and added to the spirit of solidarity and humour that defined the month.
This initiative reflects Orbit’s ongoing commitment to supporting local causes and championing the wellbeing of the Midlands community the company has proudly served for over three decades.
Orbit Celebrates 30 Years
On 14 November 2025, Orbit Coaches proudly celebrates 30 years of serving Leicestershire and the wider Midlands community. What began as a small family venture with a single Minibus has grown into a trusted, reputable coach company with a modern fleet, dedicated workshop team and a strong family-led leadership at its heart.
This milestone reflects three decades of hard work, investment and genuine commitment to passengers. From school trips and corporate travel to weddings, open-top tours and community events, Orbit has played a part in thousands of memorable journeys across the region.
The anniversary also marks the continued legacy of the Chapman family; past, present and future, whose passion, care and hands-on approach have shaped Orbit into the warm, reliable and community-focused company it is today.
Thirty years on, Orbit Coaches remains dedicated to delivering safe, friendly and dependable travel for every passenger, with exciting plans for the next chapter already underway.