National Express UK Coach and fellow Mobico Group business Alsa – which is its Spanish-headquartered transport division – will join forces in January 2026 to create what National Express says will be “a pan-European coach powerhouse”.
The National Express brand will continue unchanged after that amalgamation, but as part of the work, Javier Martinez Prieto (pictured, below) has been named Managing Director of National Express UK Coach.
He brings over 30 years’ experience of working at Alsa, most recently serving as Purchasing and Maintenance Director. Mr Martinez Prieto is charged with driving forward National Express UK Coach’s strategic growth, strengthening its competitive position, the business says.
Integration of the two businesses will “combine market expertise and unlock strategic efficiencies,” National Express adds. Alsa has significant operations in many European nations and a presence in the Moroccan market.
Victor Lopez will serve as General Manager, Alsa Spain and UK, while Kevin Gale continues in his role of National Express UK and Germany CEO.
Mr Gale took up that position after the departure of Alex Jensen earlier in 2025. Over the coming months, he will work closely with Mr Martinez Prieto to ensure a smooth transition while maintaining the company’s focus on operational excellence across both markets.
Speaking about his appointment, Mr Martinez Prieto says: “I am honoured to lead National Express at an exciting time for the business.
“Joining forces with Alsa unites two coach giants – each highly respected leaders in their respective UK and Spanish markets, and strengthening our ability to deliver a great transport service for our customers across 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 confirmed that its UK bus division in the West Midlands does not form part of the arrangement with Alsa.
