Starr’s story began in 1947 with just two transit buses providing route service between Trenton and Hightstown, New Jersey. From those early beginnings, Starr grew steadily into one of the largest privately owned tour and motorcoach companies in the United States.
The 1950s marked an era of growth as air conditioning and onboard lavatories were introduced, setting new standards for comfort in motorcoach travel. In the 1960s, Starr expanded into group and individual tours, inspired by landmark events such as the New York World’s Fair and a growing demand for long-distance sightseeing and vacation travel.
Following the passing of founder Gilbert Sussman in 1969, the business continued under the leadership of his wife, Shirley Sussman, and later under his son Mitchell Sussman and son-in-law Alan Glickman. As Atlantic City casinos reshaped the motorcoach industry in the late 1970s, Starr emerged as an industry leader, expanding its fleet and strengthening its market presence. The 1980s and 1990s brought further innovation with the introduction of fly and cruise vacations, giving Starr travelers even more ways to explore.
In late 2008, Starr made a pivotal decision to consolidate its Tour and Transit divisions into one unified company, STARR. This move brought teams together under one operational structure, strengthening communication, efficiency, and execution while enhancing the overall travel experience for guests.
In 2015, Starr was honored as International Motorcoach Group Operator of the Year, recognizing its excellence in customer service, safety, maintenance, training, and leadership within the motorcoach industry.
Between 2018 and 2021, Starr experienced significant growth, expanding its tour offerings and reach through the acquisition of Seniortours and by assuming leadership of Eyre Tours in Maryland. During this period, Starr also launched College Break Bus, providing safe and reliable transportation for college students and universities while reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact by taking thousands of cars off the road.
The year 2020 brought unprecedented challenges with the COVID-19 pandemic, yet Starr responded with resilience, innovation, and a continued commitment to safety. Initiatives such as the virtual Tour Tuesday program kept travelers engaged, while enhanced safety measures ensured a confident return to motorcoach travel. This period strengthened Starr’s operations, culture, and connection with its travelers.
Today, Starr is one of the largest family-owned bus companies in the United States. Ownership and leadership have transitioned to the third generation, with Sandy and Peter Borowsky, daughter and son-in-law of Alan and Renee Glickman, guiding the company forward alongside a dedicated team of nearly 100 employees.
As part of its continued growth and evolution, Starr relocated its corporate headquarters to Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, on January 1, 2026. This move reflects the company’s expanding footprint in the Mid-Atlantic region and supports future innovation, operational efficiency, and long-term growth.
Now in its third generation of family ownership, Starr proudly continues its legacy of delivering safe, comfortable, and exceptional travel experiences while looking ahead to an exciting future.
