Distribusion Technologies: Shaping the Future of Ground Transportation in North America

By Ryan Knapp, Head of Business Development North America 

North America remains a key player in the global ground transportation sector, with the United States and Canada leading the way in both freight and passenger mobility. As demand for efficient and accessible transportation continues to rise, intercity travel is undergoing a significant transformation, with bus and rail services playing an increasingly vital role in regional connectivity.

A major shift is happening in the intercity bus sector, which is poised for substantial growth. According to the latest 2025 Outlook for the Intercity Bus Industry in the United States report, intercity bus ridership is expected to increase by 4% in 2025, significantly outpacing the projected 2.4–2.8% growth of domestic auto and air travel. This resurgence highlights the cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and flexibility of intercity bus services, which are becoming more attractive to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking multimodal connectivity. 

The report also emphasizes the increasing role of third-party retailers, OTAs, and travel management companies (TMCs) in boosting ridership by providing seamless access to digital booking platforms. With bus operators expanding their networks and investing in modern fleets, the intercity sector is well-positioned to meet growing passenger demand.

In response to these trends, Distribusion is strengthening its presence in North America, forging partnerships with leading transportation providers to enhance digital integration and expand market reach for intercity bus and rail operators.

By connecting carriers with OTAs and TMCs, Distribusion enables operators to scale their services, optimize ticket sales, and improve customer accessibility, reinforcing its role as the trusted technology partner for the industry.

• Amtrak: We have successfully integrated Amtrak’s API into the Distribusion Portal (Agent), replacing a legacy system used for over 20 years. This upgrade now provides B2B agents worldwide—compatible with thousands of global POS systems and major TMCs like AMEX, CWT, and BCD—with seamless access to Amtrak’s extensive network. Over 2,000 agencies have transitioned to the new platform, leading to a 150% increase in daily traffic during Q3 and an additional 250% growth in Q4, along with a 50% rise in user activity.

• Brightline: The leading provider of eco-friendly intercity rail in the U.S., Brightline has expanded its booking options through Distribusion’s network of OTAs and travel sellers. This integration enhances Brightline’s visibility among domestic and international travelers, ensuring a smooth and seamless booking experience.These and many other partnerships reflect our ambition in the North American region and our vision to bring all rail supply together on a single platform, making it easily accessible through one simple connection.

Emerging Trends in North American Ground Transportation

The intercity bus industry is evolving rapidly, with major players like FlixBus, Peter Pan, RedCoach, and Trailways expanding their networks to meet growing demand. According to the 2025 Outlook for the Intercity Bus Industry, the industry is seeing:

1. Resurgence of Major Routes and Network Expansion: 

• Major operators are doubling down on high-demand routes, such as the Boston–New York and New York–Washington D.C. corridors, where bus service has grown by approximately 20% over the past year.

• The Southwest corridor is seeing rapid growth, with Hispanic-focused bus lines dominating key intercity routes.

2. Increased Investment in Modern Fleets & Amenities

• More operators are rolling out premium coaches with features like Wi-Fi, enhanced seating, and digital booking tools to attract a broader customer base.

• Companies like FlixBus have expanded their network significantly, capturing market share with their flexible, technology-driven approach.

3. Multimodal Travel and Technology Integration

• The demand for seamless intermodal connections between bus, rail, and air travel is increasing.

• Major travel platforms are prioritizing integrated ticketing solutions, making it easier for passengers to book multi-leg journeys across different transportation modes.

How Distribusion is Driving Innovation in Ground Transportation

Distribusion Technologies is at the forefront of this transformation, equipping OTAs, TMCs, and ground transportation providers with advanced tools to navigate the rapidly evolving intercity bus and rail landscape:

• Seamless API Integration: Our technology allows OTAs to access real-time bus and rail inventory, making it easier to compare, book, and manage trips efficiently.

• Expanded Distribution Network: We connect bus and rail operators with 150+ OTAs and travel retailers, increasing visibility and sales.

• Enhanced Traveler Experience: By integrating AI-driven personalization, Distribusion enables smarter route recommendations, improving customer satisfaction.

Empowering Travel Sellers with the Distribusion Portal

Our Distribusion Portal offers an intuitive, all-in-one platform for travel sellers to manage intercity transportation bookings in real time. Key benefits include:

1. Real-time search and booking: Instantly view schedules, availability, and pricing across our global network.

2. Comprehensive booking management: Easily amend, cancel, refund, or resend bookings.

3. Unrivaled carrier coverage: Access services from 1,200+ bus and rail operators across more than 75 countries.

   
   

Join the Largest Ground Transport Network

Distribusion remains the authority in ground transportation technology, providing unmatched access to the most comprehensive bus and rail network in North America. We help ground transportation providers and travel retailers tap into new revenue streams, expand market reach, and meet growing passenger demand.

💡 Interested in learning more? Contact us today to explore how Distribusion can connect your business to the world’s largest intercity transportation network.

✉️ Ryan Knapp, Head of Business Development North America ryan.knapp@distribusion.com