Munich/Sydney, July 10th, 2025 – Flix, the global travel-tech leader known for reshaping long-distance travel by bus and train, is expanding to Australia. Launching in time for the region’s summer travel season, Flix continues its long-term strategy of profitable global growth, expanding further into the Asia-Pacific region with strong confidence in the market’s potential.

“Australia has been on our radar for a long time, but the country’s unique geography meant it took us a bit longer to get there. However, the potential was always clear to us, ” said André Schwämmlein, CEO and co-founder of Flix. ” This milestone marks the next chapter in our global journey, following over a decade of proven success in Europe and North America, and continued strong growth across Latin America, and India, ” added Schwämmlein.

Strategic expansion into the Asia-Pacific region

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is emerging as a major growth driver for the global long-distance travel market, with the intercity coach segment projected to grow at a 12.2% CAGR (2023E–28P). While India plays a significant role, particularly in the fast-growing premium private-contract coach segment, the projection reflects broader APAC region potential. Growth is fueled by increasing affluence, improving infrastructure, and limited rail alternatives. [1]

“Australia is not only an attractive standalone growth market, but also a further milestone in Flix’s presence across the Asia-Pacific region. It’s a step in building a connected and sustainable future of travel all across the world. Together with Latin America, these two regions form the core of our long-term growth and innovation roadmap,” added Schwämmlein. “Although existing operators offer modern vehicles, the sector remains largely traditional, with only partial digital integration. That opens the door for real customer-focused innovation, and a fully digital experience where we can benefit from our global customer base which will love to finally travel across Australia with FlixBus, ” added Schwämmlein.

Scalable growth powered by local partnerships

Flix will operate under its asset-light, long-term partnership business model, which has been successfully replicated across more than 40 countries on four continents. This approach combines Flix’s technology and the operational expertise of local bus operators to ensure a high-quality, safe, and reliable experience for passengers.

To lead the Australian market, Flix announces Yvan Lefranc-Morin, as Senior Managing Director for Australia.

“Yvan has been part of Flix for over 10 years successfully building amazing businesses in important markets such as France and the Benelux region. This makes him the ideal entrepreneur within Flix to develop the Australian market, driving growth with an amazing team, fostering strong partnerships with operators, and to lead the company’s long-term investment in the region,” added Schwämmlein.

Lefranc-Morin is relocating to Sydney, where Flix is opening an Australian FlixBus office. He will also oversee the development of the Australian business, reinforcing Flix’s long-term commitment to the market.

Global momentum with a local future

With over 500 million passengers since launch and 6,800+ destinations, Flix has redefined long-distance travel globally. Its mission blends technology, sustainability, and customer empowerment, creating smart travel options across continents.

[1] OC&C Strategy Consultants | Long-distance travel market study, 2023