Reflections on a conversation-packed Euro Bus Expo 2024

Last week, the Passenger team wrapped up an incredible three days at Euro Bus Expo 2024, held at the NEC in Birmingham, UK. The event brought together industry leaders, operators, and innovators to explore the latest developments in public transport—and we were thrilled to be part of it!

At our stand in the bustling Technology Zone, we had the opportunity to showcase Passenger’s latest innovations in customer experience. Visitors were particularly excited to see how our solutions are personalising the customer journey with our recent travel alerts update.

Throughout the event, we demonstrated how our technology empowers operators and authorities to deliver frictionless experiences, from intuitive journey planning to real-time information and tailored communications. These advancements improve customer satisfaction and contribute to more efficient and sustainable transport networks.

Franchising: A Key Talking Point

One of the big themes at Euro Bus Expo 2024 was bus franchising, a topic changing the future of public transport in the UK. Passenger is already playing an important role in this evolving landscape.

In a conversation with Passenger Transport magazine at the show, CEO Tom Quay reflected on how Passenger is adapting to the franchising model:

“Our software products are already a great fit for franchised regions. We have multi-operator deployments with multi-operator ticketing that have been running on the Passenger platform for several years, delivering great results. The big development for us is adapting to a different buyer: local government.

We have deep experience working with commercial operators in the deregulated market. They can choose a digital partner without going through the same public sector procurement process.

So, over the last 18 months, we’ve built a bid capability that is working with local authorities to shape requirements and respond to public sector tenders. One of their big concerns is the loss of innovation because requirements can be too tight. So that’s something we’re supporting them in. Being able to work with Passenger through G-Cloud and The National Mobilities Procurement Hub makes it easier for them to work with us too.

It’s an exciting time for the business, as we’ve been able to take a fresh look at international opportunities as well. There is so much opportunity for digital to support public transport transformation globally.”

Euro Bus Expo gave us the chance to connect with many of you—industry professionals passionate about shaping the future of public transport. We were inspired by the meaningful discussions around challenges and opportunities facing the sector, and we’re excited to take these ideas forward.

Through regular market engagement, Passenger continues to ensure that its solutions and expertise remain aligned with the changing needs of the industry. Franchising isn’t the only approach to running successful local bus services available to UK regions. But, where its adoption is being considered, there is an opportunity for authorities and expert supply chain partners to deliver exceptional customer experiences and to drive the increases in public transport use that the politicians are aspiring to.

Looking Ahead

As the event drew to a close on the final day, it was clear that innovation and collaboration remain at the heart of the industry’s progress. Passenger is proud to be part of this journey, and we’re already looking forward to the next opportunity to connect and share.

Thank you to everyone who visited us and made Euro Bus Expo 2024 a resounding success. If you missed us at the event or would like to learn more about our solutions, feel free to get in touch.