Powering People, Driving Growth: How ECHO AFC Transportation Elevates Passenger Service

Founded over 30 years ago and led by President and CEO John Ferrari, ECHO has built a reputation for adapting to changing needs. (Photo courtesy of ABC Companies)

The transportation industry is evolving rapidly, with customer expectations growing every day. For companies like ECHO AFC Transportation, staying ahead means delivering consistent, reliable, and high-quality service. Founded over 30 years ago and led by President and CEO John Ferrari, ECHO has built a reputation for adapting to changing needs through innovation and a customer-centric approach.

As one of the largest independent ground transportation providers in Texas, ECHO operates a fleet of over 600 vehicles, providing services across the United States and Canada. From charter buses and shuttle transit to private car services and event logistics, ECHO offers fully customizable transportation solutions for a diverse range of customers. At the heart of ECHO’s success is a commitment to quality service, a focus on people, and a long-standing partnership with ABC Companies that helps drive their vision forward.

One way ECHO ensures a high standard of service is by maintaining a modern fleet. Their motorcoaches come equipped with high-spec features like leather seating, climate control, USB charging ports, enclosed parcel racks, adaptive cruise control, and more. These amenities not only enhance comfort but also elevate the passenger experience, reflecting its focus on quality.

Earlier in its history, ECHO introduced the “Skittles of Buses” concept to make routes more identifiable. Today, the fleet’s signature black visual branding with reflective logos brings a uniform, professional look. ECHO understands that its fleet is more than just a collection of vehicles; it’s a critical part of the customer experience.

“We constantly hear from our passengers that our coaches are the nicest and all the exact same from an exterior and interior perspective. That kind of feedback tells us we’re doing something right and pushes us to keep raising the bar in every aspect of our service,” Ferrari said.

ECHO is not just growing for the sake of it. The company’s strategy is to build a network that enhances mobility and serves local communities. One example is the acquisition of Windy City Transportation, a move that demonstrates ECHO’s commitment to thoughtful growth. Ferrari approaches acquisitions with a focus on cultural alignment rather than just financial analysis.

At the heart of ECHO’s success is its team of dedicated professionals. The company places strong emphasis on training and onboarding to ensure that every employee is well-prepared to deliver exceptional service. Whether it’s transit operations or charter services, each team member undergoes comprehensive training tailored to their specific role.

“Ongoing training isn’t just a task, it’s an investment in our future,” Ferrari said. “Investing in our team’s skills ensures they are fully prepared to meet our high standards and deliver exceptional customer experiences.”

ECHO also believes that efficient transportation relies on integrating advanced technology.

According to ECHO: “By leveraging systems like ABC Connect, a telematics tool installed before delivery, ECHO gains real-time insights into vehicle performance, boosting safety and efficiency.”

According to ABC Companies: “Since 1999, ABC Companies has been a strategic partner to ECHO, delivering tailored fleet solutions that have significantly enhanced both operational efficiency and customer experience. One of the key contributions from ABC has been the delivery of customized Van Hool CX45 motorcoaches, built to ECHO’s specifications to reflect their luxury brand image and reputation for high-line passenger experience. These coaches also feature amenities such as leatherette seating, enclosed parcel racks, adaptive cruise control, and 360-degree cameras.”

Brenda Wordelman, Senior Vice President of National Accounts at ABC Companies, reflects on the enduring relationship. “From the very beginning, John & Stephanie’s loyalty and support have meant the world to me and ABC Companies. It’s relationships like ours that make our work and growth together truly meaningful. Thank you for being such an important part of our story, and congratulations on your growth and success. Here’s to the road ahead – together.”