First Bus and FlixBus announce partnership expansion for 2026
Leading UK-wide operator First Bus and global travel tech company FlixBus are announcing the expansion of their partnership, with 11 new vehicles set to join the FlixBus network from spring 2026.
The latest addition to the agreement will bring the First Bus depot in Leicester and coaching operations in Leeds to the FlixBus network adding capacity on key routes in the Midlands and North of England.
Services will also expand at First Bus depots in the West of England and coaching operations in Yorkshire, supporting FlixBus’ ambition to be the coach brand of choice for customers travelling between major cities and regional hubs.
The growth of the partnership reflects First Bus’ continued commitment to FlixBus, as it continues to diversify its portfolio.
This next phase builds on the success of the partnership launched in 2025 with a five year contract, and First Bus’s investment in 11 new vehicles brings its fleet of dedicated Flix-spec coaches to 32.
Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director, Business to Business for First Bus, commented: “Our partnership with FlixBus is delivering strong results so we’re expanding the long-term contract to involve more of our depots across England.
“This further investment reinforces our strategic focus on growing our involvement in long-distance coach.”
FlixBus has provided millions of passengers with affordable, sustainable coach travel since launching in the UK in 2021.
The company continues its rapid growth trajectory to over 80 destinations this year, with significant expansions of its national network due to launch in 2026.
Andreas Schorling, Senior Managing Director of FlixBus UK, comments: “The demand for our modern, comfortable and affordable coach services continues to rise and we have a fantastic relationship with First Bus.
“Together we plan build an even stronger network and move FlixBus closer to UK market leadership which we see as inevitable.”
Dedicated FlixBus operations teams at First Bus will manage service delivery, seeing 40 new jobs created in the process.
The new vehicles will enter service from spring 2026, enhancing frequencies, improving connectivity and supporting the continued growth of the FlixBus brand in the UK.