Integralia analyses the passenger transport market in the two countries that separate the Pyrenees.
The passenger transport market plays a strategic role in the European economy due to its impact on the daily lives of citizens and its contribution to employment and development in countries across the Union. Efficiency, sustainability and interconnection are essential to capitalise on the economic strengths of all regions and to promote growth and economic, territorial and social cohesion.
The situation in Spain and France is no different. In addition to the basic needs of transport for the development of activities, educational centres and work spaces, on both sides of the Pyrenees there is a strong common industry: tourism. Both countries have been among the top ten most visited tourist destinations in the world for decades.
Undoubtedly, both France and Spain have been affected by the current context, especially in the wake of the pandemic and the global supply crisis. This situation has led to a trend towards the regrouping of companies and the creation of larger groups, as well as a lack of continuity in micro-enterprises in both countries. In addition, the current market circumstances have led the Spanish operator to demand more multi-service vehicles, while the French market has maintained a demand for more specific equipment for school transport.
The population distribution and orography of both countries also influence the differences in demand for passenger transport. In France, with populations more dispersed between valleys, a differentiated offer is required, depending on the use of the vehicle. On the other hand, Spain has a different population distribution, which has an impact on passenger transport demand.
In terms of company size, there are certain similarities between the two markets. In general, France has a larger presence of large multinational groups compared to Spain, where the industry average has a fleet of no more than 10 operational vehicles.
In terms of regulatory differences, the two markets are tending to become increasingly homogenised. Until recently, the main inequality lay in the equipment requirements for school transport. It is as simple as the fact that the vehicle in France must incorporate the Ethylotest for its start-up, while in Spain it is compulsory to have a reversing and side camera.
In any case, the French market was looking for a simpler and more specific product for this type of service, while in Spain, vehicles that comply with the necessary standards for school transport and also adapt to other services were more frequently chosen.
Integralia on both sides of the Pyrenees
Integralia has a specific product for school transport in France, but above all, what characterises this company is its ability to adapt to the needs of each client. Its vehicles have infinite customisation possibilities, which allows it to create unique minibuses focused on multiple services. From simple products to premium vehicles for a very select public. Although, without a doubt, the bet that is working best for Integralia on both sides of the Pyrenees is to offer high quality and long-lasting products. In this respect, there is no difference between the French and Spanish markets.