Flix expands into Australia
Flix is expanding to serve Australia.
The country has been on Flix’s radar for a long time, according to André Schwämmlein, CEO and co-founder of Flix. However, he says the country’s unique geography meant it took the travel-tech company ‘a bit longer to get there’.
To lead the Australian market, Flix announces Yvan Lefranc-Morin, as Senior Managing Director for Australia. 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.
Launching in time for the region’s summer travel season, the expansion sees Flix move into the Asia-Pacific region for the first time. 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 fuelled by increasing affluence, improving infrastructure, and limited rail alternatives.
˝Australia is not only an attractive standalone growth market, but also a further milestone in Flix’s presence across the Asia-Pacific region” – André Schwämmlein, CEO and co-founder of Flix
André Schwämmlein said: “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.
˝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. 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.”