Flixbus, a German company, has entered the Canadian market, aiming to fill the void left by Greyhound’s departure from the country four years ago. Founded in Munich in 2013, Flixbus is known for its affordable bus services wrapped in bright green branding. Operating in over 40 countries, the company expanded to North America in 2018, initially focusing on the west coast of the U.S.
After Greyhound’s exit from Canada in 2021, Flixbus swiftly acquired the Greyhound brand. It commenced cross-border trips between the U.S. and Canada, followed by domestic services within Canada in 2022. The company has been steadily increasing its presence in Canada, doubling its mileage each year since its inception in the country.
Kai Boysan, the CEO of Flix North America based in Dallas, expressed the company’s ambition to become a prominent choice for long-distance travel within Canada. Currently operating in Ontario, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, Flixbus is eyeing expansion into Manitoba for interprovincial transit.
While Flixbus faces competition in Western Canada from established players like Ebus and Rider Express, transportation expert David Cooper highlights the necessity of government support to connect rural and remote communities, a challenge that private sector initiatives may not fully address.
Positioning itself as the “Uber for buses,” Flixbus leverages technology to forecast demand, set schedules, and manage pricing while collaborating with local partners for driver recruitment and fleet maintenance. The company aims to offer a convenient alternative to short-haul flights, integrating bus services with plane and train journeys, including stops at Via Rail stations and airports.
The expansion of Flixbus services, such as the route between Calgary International Airport and Banff, attracts a diverse customer base, with affordability being a key factor for many passengers, particularly budget-conscious travelers like backpackers.
Cooper advocates for increased government funding to enhance regional transportation options in rural and remote areas, citing successful programs like BC Bus North. Flixbus plans to extend its services to British Columbia and Quebec, with a long-term vision of establishing a coast-to-coast network across Canada.
In summary, Flixbus is positioning itself to address the evolving transportation needs in Canada, with a commitment to expanding its reach and providing accessible and efficient bus services across the country.
