Germany’s FlixBus in talks on buying Eurolines from Transdev

BERLIN (AP) - German-based bus company FlixBus is in talks to buy international bus operator Eurolines from France’s Transdev Group in a deal that would expand its European reach.

FlixBus and Transdev said Monday that they are entering exclusive negotiations on Eurolines, whose network spans 25 countries. Eurolines also operates French domestic routes under the Isilines brand, which would be part of the possible deal.

The companies did not disclose financial details.

FlixBus has become Germany’s dominant bus operator since the country relaxed strict restrictions on long-distance buses in 2013. French rival Blablabus plans to expand into Germany this year.

FlixBus founder and CEO Jochen Engert said the Eurolines purchase “would strengthen our European network and complement organic growth in key European markets.”