At present, interesting opportunities are emerging in regions such as the West Midlands, Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, West Yorkshire, and South Yorkshire. These areas are modernising their bus networks, preparing new franchising models, and investing in zero-emission transport. Beyond the major metropolitan areas, new projects are also appearing across other parts of England, Scotland, and Wales, where investments are being made into upgrading public transport and related infrastructure.

This transformation is not solely about making transport more environmentally friendly. UK cities are also focused on simplifying public transport for passengers, integrating different modes of transport, and creating more modern, connected systems. Alongside fleet renewal, the importance of digitalisation, smart mobility, and new ticketing solutions is growing. These are precisely the areas where new opportunities are currently opening up for Czech companies.

Investment is increasingly directed not only at vehicles themselves but also at supporting infrastructure and the energy systems behind public transport. UK cities are addressing the development of charging depots, energy management, smart traffic systems, and giving priority to public transport in urban traffic. As a result, the transformation of transport is gradually merging with sectors such as energy, digitalisation, and broader smart city solutions. Opportunities are also emerging for companies specialising in electrical components, cabling, energy solutions, charging infrastructure, HVAC systems, smart traffic management, and engineering services. A new supplier ecosystem is gradually taking shape, linking transport, energy, and digital technologies. In practice, this means that a new technological ecosystem is being created—one that is increasingly open to international suppliers.

However, the UK market is specific in many ways, and entry typically requires a strong understanding of local standards and certification requirements. In ticketing, for example, the ITSO standard plays a key role in ensuring interoperability across public transport systems throughout the UK. The ability to adapt to such requirements can be crucial for foreign companies.

Timing is also important. Many projects are still in the preparatory phase—under consultation or supplier engagement—when future supply chains are being shaped and technical specifications are being defined.

The transformation of public transport in the UK is therefore not just a series of individual tenders, but rather a long-term trend that will continue in the years ahead. It is within these broader systemic changes that Czech technology and industrial companies may find their place.