First Bus will expand its operational role within the FlixBus network in 2026, with 11 additional vehicles scheduled to enter service from spring next year. The move increases First Bus’ Flix-spec fleet to 32 vehicles and strengthens its position within the long-distance coach market.
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.”
The expansion brings First Bus depots in Leicester, Leeds, the West of England and parts of Yorkshire further into FlixBus operations. It increases capacity on routes linking major cities and regional centres across the Midlands and the North, with a wider uplift planned for services connecting the South West and Yorkshire.
FlixBus continues to scale its presence in the UK after entering the market in 2021. Its network is projected to reach more than 80 destinations this year, with additional national expansions scheduled for 2026. First Bus will manage service delivery for the new routes through dedicated operational teams, with the roll-out expected to support around 40 new jobs.
The 2026 fleet additions are planned to increase service frequencies, extend regional connectivity, and support the continued national growth of the FlixBus network.
