GO Group Sales Jump 67% in First Half

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Sep 07, 2011, 04:06 ET

CHICAGO, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The GO Group, LLC, a consortium of some 35 airport ground transportation companies around the world, has announced a 67 percent increase in sales through its collective website www.goairportshuttle.com and other joint marketing efforts.

The privately held entity, which is owned by 10 of its member companies and operates as a franchise, posted sales of almost $2 million for the first six months of the year, which compares to approximately $1.3 million for the same period a year ago. The numbers do not include revenue generated individually by its members.

In addition, GO has added five new member companies to its roster so far in 2011. The new members include shuttle companies serving airports in Indianapolis, Jacksonville, San Antonio, Paris and Prague.

Launched in August 2007, The GO Group has enjoyed annual increases, despite downturns in the travel industry, more than doubling between 2008 (the first full year of operation) and 2010, according to John C. McCarthy, president.

"If growth continues, we can expect to top $4 million by the end of the year," he says, attributing higher sales to having the right product at the right time.

"Travelers today are both cost conscious and environmentally aware. A shared ride is an economical transportation option that is more earth friendly than a private vehicle or taxi."

McCarthy, who is also president of GO Airport Express in Chicago, adds that collective marketing under the GO brand has benefitted the individual companies as well.

"The GO Group has provided its members with international brand recognition as well as increased revenue," he adds. "It's been the rising tide that lifts all boats."

The consortium was formed as a one-stop source for door-to-door airport shuttle services. Each year, its members transport some 8 million passengers to and from airports in the United States, Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Europe. Travelers can book ground transportation to and from both departure and destination airports through GO's website, www.goairportshuttle.com.

SOURCE The GO Group, LLC