Deutsche Post and ADAC reviewing possible entry into German long-distance bus market

The Allgemeine Deutsche Automobilclub (ADAC) (German automobile association) and Deutsche Post are developing a concept for a national long-distance bus network. Deutsche Post, Germany's market leader on the mail and parcel market, and ADAC, Europe's largest automobile association, are considering a joint plan to connect Germany's most important urban centers nationwide with a brand-new, top-quality, fast-moving bus network as a way to tap the growing long-distance bus market. With their existing branch offices all across Germany, ADAC and Deutsche Post already have outstanding infrastructure in place. Following an extensive review, the companies have determined that a joint market launch would be possible as early as 2014.

Outstanding infrastructure

Two months ago, the German Federal Government resolved to liberalize Germany's long-distance bus market (effective January 1, 2013), which will allow private bus companies to offer long-distance routes between cities throughout Germany. Until now, long-distance buses could only be deployed on routes not covered by the public transportation network.

Deutsche Post began reviewing a possible expansion into this area when the planned market liberalization was announced. In the search for a possible partner, ADAC emerged as the first choice. Germany's leading mobility services provider is very much in line with Deutsche Post values such as reliability, quality and speed. A joint team of mobility experts from both companies has now developed a concept currently being discussed in committees at ADAC and Deutsche Post. 

Know-how in transportation and fleet management

"It is time for an economical, safe and comfortable transportation alternative," stresses Jürgen Gerdes, Board Member for MAIL at Deutsche Post DHL. "Like no other company in Germany, Deutsche Post stands for nationwide presence and reliability. We also bring our know-how in transportation and fleet management. This is an extremely strong base for success in the long-distance bus market. We are all the more pleased to be partnering with ADAC - a German institution that brings prestige and tremendous experience in the area of mobility."

ADAC board chairman Dr. Karl Obermair calls the liberalization of the German long-distance bus market one of the most important new developments in transportation infrastructure in recent years. For Obermair, a modern, attractive long-distance bus network would offer consumers a more economical alternative to cars, trains and airplanes - and be a boon for individual mobility. ADAC sees a huge opportunity and bright prospects for its members. "It makes good sense for ADAC to consider a long-term commitment to the long-distance bus market together with Deutsche Post, and to develop an attractive service alternative for consumers," says Obermair.