Business was up in 2012 for the majority of respondents. While FirstGroup America and Coach USA still hold the top two spots, Horizon jumps up to number three.

Capitalizing on tech-savvy consumers who are looking to stretch their dollar and take advantage of added value, quicker trip times and online ticketing, express services have expanded their services from the Northeast to the West.

Once again, FirstGroup America takes the top spot with 9,175 vehicles. The financial picture brightened substantially in 2010, with business up across the board by nearly 10 percent and financing hurdles easing up.

Service reflects changes in rider choices for transportation to both work and recreational activities. Younger riders are drawn to the value in price and the ability to remain connected during the ride.

FirstGroup America tops the list in METRO’s annual motorcoach survey, with 8,326 vehicles. The recession had business down overall, but operators forged ahead with more contract work and acquired new technological tools.

The North American carrier recently added advanced seating technology, which combines three-point lap-and-shoulder belts with compartmentalization, further enhancing the safety of their Northeastern fleets.