National Express and Alsa to create ‘European coach powerhouse’.

Javier Martinez Prieto, MD of UK Coach, will lead the merger of two Mobico Group businesses.

National Express UK Coach and Alsa, its Spanish-based transport subsidiary, will merge in January 2026 to become what National Express describes as “a pan-European coach powerhouse.”

The National Express brand will remain unchanged after the merger, although Javier Martinez Prieto (shown below) has been appointed Managing Director of National Express UK Coach.

He has almost 30 years of experience working for Alsa, most recently acting as Purchasing and Maintenance Director.

Mr Martinez Prieto is tasked with driving National Express UK Coach’s strategic expansion and increasing its competitive position, the company said.

The merger of the two companies will “combine market expertise and unlock strategic efficiencies,” according to National Express.

Alsa has large activities in various European countries and a presence in the Moroccan market.

Victor Lopez will become General Manager of Alsa Spain and the United Kingdom, while Kevin Gale remains CEO of National Express UK and Germany.

Mr Gale assumed the role following the departure of Alex Jensen earlier in 2025. Over the next several months, he will work closely with Mr Martinez Prieto to guarantee a smooth transition while preserving the company’s commitment on operational excellence in both markets.

Mr Martinez Prieto comments on his appointment, saying, “I am honoured to lead National Express at this exciting time for the company.”

“Joining forces with Alsa brings together two coach giants, both well respected leaders in their respective UK and Spanish markets, and strengthens our ability to provide excellent transport services to our customers throughout the UK and Europe.”

National Express is the UK’s number one scheduled coach operator, trusted and loved by millions of customers each year, and I look forward to building on that success together with our incredible, highly skilled team.”

National Express has stated that the contract with Alsa does not include its UK bus division in the West Midlands.

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