**London**: Global TransitTech company Zeelo has invested over £40 million into UK coach and bus businesses in 2024, strengthening local partnerships to navigate financial challenges, enhance fleet capabilities, and promote sustainability in public transport amidst a growing demand for services.
Global TransitTech company Zeelo has disclosed that it has channelled over £40 million into UK coach and bus businesses in 2024 through its partnerships with local operators. This marks a significant increase year-on-year, and the company believes it provides a crucial stabilising influence for the sector, which is currently navigating a challenging financial landscape.
Zeelo attributes its growth to a collaborative model with local operators, enabling its partners to expand their fleets and workforce in response to increasing demand for transport services. David Biszby, Director of UK Operations at Zeelo, emphasised the importance of these partnerships, stating, “We wouldn’t be where we are without our operator partners. By building strong, reliable relationships and offering consistent, growth-focused contracts, we create long-term value that drives success on both sides.”
In a strategic move to enhance its portfolio, Zeelo acquired the virtual school transport platform Kura last year. As a result, the company now claims to operate “the largest virtual bus operation in the UK,” having facilitated over 15 million journeys to date.
Kieran Swindells, Managing Director at Swans Travel, expressed his approval of the partnership with Zeelo, noting its distinct approach compared to conventional supplier-client interactions. He remarked, “Our relationship with Zeelo has grown far beyond that of a traditional supplier and client. From the very beginning, its team has worked collaboratively with us to understand how we can best support each other. It’s a genuine partnership; built on trust, transparency, and shared goals, that continues to deliver value for both sides. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together in the months and years ahead.”
Recent research cited by Zeelo indicates that the global coach and bus market was valued at $72.11 billion in 2022, with expectations for significant growth leading up to 2030. Nonetheless, the UK industry is facing “funding shortfalls and limited policy support.” In light of these challenges, Zeelo is urging policymakers to consider the critical role that the coach sector plays in alleviating congestion and reducing emissions, as well as in providing connectivity for communities that are often overlooked by mainstream public transport networks.
Additionally, Zeelo is set to relaunch its Operator Referral Scheme in the UK, which will leverage the local knowledge of operators to identify new business opportunities and further expand Zeelo’s network. Sam Ryan, CEO and co-founder of the company, commented on this initiative, stating, “Investing in our local operators is not only about expanding transport services; it’s about building a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous future for our communities.”
Source: Noah Wire Services
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