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FlixMobility takes ownership of the iconic Greyhound bus brand: What does this mean for riders?

Oct. 21, 2021
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3 min read
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FlixMobility takes ownership of the iconic Greyhound bus brand: What does this mean for riders?
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Traveling by bus may not be the most glamorous option in the world, but, for many, the patchwork of intercity bus operators across the U.S. provides an important — and affordable — way to get from point A to point B.

Beyond a simple means of transportation, America's bus system has inspired countless artists, including beatnik author Jack Kerouac, as he saw the country unfold through the window of a bus. While the reality of bus travel is not nearly as romantic and nostalgic as it's often painted in the movies, it still plays a vital transportation role.

The fate of one of the most recognized bus companies, Greyhound Lines, has been in the balance since its owner FirstGroup announced it was putting the brand up for sale back in May 2019. Then the pandemic happened and the process slowed considerably.

In fact, in early July 2021, Greyhound announced it was shuttering subsidiary BoltBus — you know, the chain of buses that promised seats with decent legroom and power outlets, good Wi-Fi and tickets as cheap as $1.

OK, usually only one seat on each bus was priced at $1, but it was a great gimmick to draw potential riders. For many, it was their preferred method of transportation between New York and cities like Boston, Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

But, the future of Greyhound's bus network is now clear: FlixMobility — the provider behind the FlixBus and FlixTrains brands — has purchased the company.

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According to Greyhound, "The Transaction results in cash consideration to the Group of $172m, comprising $140m paid initially, with $32m in unconditional deferred consideration paid in installments over 18 months.

If you're not already familiar with FlixBus USA, it launched in 2018 and focuses on Southwest destinations, from Phoenix to Las Vegas to Los Angeles. It has since expanded to additional cities in the South, Northeast and Pacific Northwest.

So, in reality, what does this mean for riders? FlixMobility says the acquisition will help FlixBus "be better able to service the needs of intercity bus travelers in the U.S. Intercity bus lines were a lifeline during the pandemic for communities and essential workers, and as economies re-open, they will be a tremendous driver for sustainable growth across the company."

The overall network will expand with Greyhound's 2,400 existing destinations across North America. FlixMobility will be better positioned to serve the needs of passengers across the country that are looking for affordable and comfortable ways to travel.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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  • Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
  • Solid welcome bonus

Cons

  • Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
  • Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
  • You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
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  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
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