History
Our Location and Services
Situated in eMalahleni (formerly Witbank) and with a depot in Pretoria and Groblersdal, PAL Bus Services specializes in transporting passengers and providing accredited bus driver training. Our strategic location at the hub of coal and gold mining on the Maputo corridor enables us to serve a vital role in the region. Additionally, we provide charter services utilizing semi-luxury buses.
A Legacy of Excellence
As a fourth-generation family business, PAL Bus Services deeply understands our customers' needs and the evolving landscape of South Africa's transport industry. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a place in the finals of the prestigious Africa SMME Awards in the service sector category, following our runner-up position in 2013. These awards, organized by the Africagrowth Institute in collaboration with private enterprises and SMME support agencies, recognize the crucial role SMMEs play in fostering opportunities and prosperity in Africa.
Extensive Network
Our network spans South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. We operate on diverse routes, with dirt roads making up about one-fifth of our routes. We are proud to offer 24-hour service to our customers year-round, maintaining an impeccable safety record with no casualties. Our zero-tolerance stance on reckless driving and unprofessional behaviour underpins this achievement.
Our History
PAL Bus Services was established four decades ago by the grandfather and father of the current owner, George Didloff. George, a qualified diesel mechanic, manages the company's workshop operations, while his wife, Sonya Didloff, oversees financial management. Both George and Sonya are qualified teachers who met in college. In 2023, the fourth generation became members of the closed corporation, continuing the family legacy and commitment to excellence.
The name "PAL" is derived from the initials of George's grandfather, Petrus Albertus Loggerenberg.
Commitment to Quality
PAL was one of the first operators to purchase VW buses when the "people's car" marque entered the commercial vehicle segment in South Africa. We are gradually standardizing our fleet with the VW 17.210 4×2 6-speed manual transmission chassis from MAN Truck & Bus, featuring Busco’s Predator body known for its semi-luxury interior. As our business grows, VW buses will continue to be our choice for new additions to the fleet.
Passenger Comfort and Safety
Our management team stays up to date with market trends, continuously improving the comfort of our passengers. With the financial status of our commuters in mind, we have tailored our vehicles to provide a semi-luxury solution. We also implement comprehensive safety, health, environment, and quality management systems to ensure a professional, reliable service with a semi-luxury edge.
Our Mission
At PAL Bus Services, our mission is to provide a professional and reliable transport service that ensures the safety and satisfaction of our passengers. We are committed to maintaining high standards of service excellence, promoting growth and development, and contributing positively to the communities we serve. Situated in eMalahleni, formerly Witbank, as well as a depot in Pretoria and Groblersdal, Pal specializes in transporting Passengers to and from work – in line with its location at the hub of coal and gold mining, on the Maputo corridor – and Scholars to and from school. The company also provides charter services utilizing semi-luxury buses.
Get in touch
We at Pal are here to serve our customers. That’s why we offer free consultations to walk you through your needs, the scope of your goals, and your budget.
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The Faces of Pal
Owner
George Didloff
As a multi-skilled individual, he is a pedagogue, qualified diesel mechanic, and commercial pilot. He manages PAL Bus Services with the belief that he is borrowing the company from his two sons, the future generation. He leads responsibly, always considering the future and not just personal gain.
The success of the business is its ability to manage its growth and fleet size according to a business that is manageable by competent managers. He assures this by maintaining service excellence and ensuring that growth does not compromise their standards.
He strongly believes in promoting growth in individuals through education, training and development. This is done by knowledge transfer between him as the owner, management and employees.
His negotiating skills have enabled him to create sustainable employment opportunities for previously disadvantaged and disabled South Africans.
He is proud of the fact that their Company was awarded Runner Up for SMME Africa Business of the Year 2013. Pal Bus Services was a finalist for Old Mutual Business of the Year 2008.
DEPOT MANAGER & OWNER
Shane Didloff
As the fourth generation involved in managing our company, he has a vision for the future in a changing South Africa. He is part of a dedicated team and takes pride in all their achievements. His commitment is to continue the legacy of excellence and innovation at PAL Bus Services. He is an analytical individual with strong leadership skills. He performs duties within the depot and is required to work on weekends an during public holidays.
He manages all the mine- and long term contracts. He ensures the adherence to regulatory and safety requirements. He ensures that the depots are managed in accordance with the environmental -, health and safety requirements.
financial manager
Sonya Didloff
Her extensive experience has equipped her with a multitude of skills, she is committed to continuing her growth. Throughout her career, she has consistently met organizational objectives and demands, demonstrating exceptional capability.
She is actively involved in the family business, including PAL Passenger Bus Services (BEE Level 2) and PAL and Sons Bus Services (BEE Level 1). PAL and Sons Bus Services was awarded the 2nd Runner-Up for the 2007 Africa SMME Awards: Service Sector by Africa Growth Research and Xstrata. Her career has been marked by an exceptional ability to meet organizational goals and expectations.
Owner & Business Strategy Expert
Dean Didloff
As a dynamic and forward-thinking professional, Dean Didloff brings a unique blend of skills and knowledge that positions him as an exceptional business strategist at Pal Passenger Bus Services. His MBA from the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), combined with a well-rounded understanding of business principles, financial acumen, and strategic management, complements his technical expertise.
In addition to his MBA (GIBS), Dean Didloff holds a BSc degree in Biochemistry and Human Physiology, as well as a BEng in Chemical Engineering, both from the University of Pretoria.
With a strong commitment to innovation, a comprehensive skill set, and an ongoing pursuit of knowledge, Dean is well-equipped to make a positive impact on the Pal Passenger Bus Services management team, contributing to a more sustainable and innovative future.
Currently, Dean oversees initiatives to enhance efficiency and productivity, ensuring that the company's operations are aligned with its broader objectives.