Busworld Europe 2025 reaffirmed its position as the world’s most influential platform for the bus and coach industry. Held at Brussels Expo, this year’s edition was abuzz with energy, packed aisles, and a truly international mix of exhibitors and visitors.
“It has been absolute chaos – in the best possible way,” laughed Mieke Glorieux, Director, Busworld Europe, as she reflected on the record turnout. “We’ve never had so many visitors before. Yesterday (day 3) was packed from the first hour, and today it’s even busier. Every corridor is full. We’re thrilled – not just with the numbers but also with the quality of visitors.”
A Record-Breaking Edition
The 2025 edition was Busworld’s largest ever, filling the entire Brussels Expo complex. “We had to rent an extra hall to accommodate everyone,” Mieke said. “In total, 559 exhibitors spread across 82,000 square metres – everything was sold out.”
After the cancelled 2021 edition and a gradual rebound in 2023, Busworld is back at full capacity. “Yes, we’re completely back,” Mieke confirmed. “The bus and coach sector has recovered and is stronger and more dynamic than ever.”
A Truly Global Mix
This year’s show stood out for its international diversity. “This edition has seen an entry of new Chinese OEMs,” said Mieke. “We even have a newcomer from Vietnam. And JBM from India has a giant stand. We’re becoming more and more international every year.”
Reflecting this, the top exhibiting countries were Turkey, China, and Germany. “Turkey leads this time,” Mieke shared. “Then comes China, followed by Germany. It’s a sign that the bus industry is now truly global.”
India’s participation, though smaller, is on the rise. “Indian companies were initially hesitant – unsure what Busworld was about,” she recalled. “But once they exhibit here, they always come back. They’re loyal, professional, and bring strong visitor networks.”
The success of the first-ever India Day at Busworld Europe reinforced India’s growing importance, creating a bridge between Indian OEMs and global stakeholders.
Beyond Brussels
Busworld’s international footprint now includes Busworld Turkey and Busworld Southeast Asia (Jakarta). “Turkey is a stable, well-established show,” Mieke said. “Jakarta is still young but has strong potential.”
Not every region has been easy to sustain. “We always give an exhibition abroad three chances,” she explained. “If it doesn’t at least break even, it’s better to stop. For example, in Latin America one player controls 80% of the market, so they don’t need us. The U.S. isn’t a bus country – there’s almost no production there.”
Still, overseas efforts strengthen the flagship show. “When we host a show abroad, it helps Brussels. We did it in India, and now Indian companies are coming here. It’s all connected.”
Why Brussels Works
Relocating from Kortrijk to Brussels has made a world of difference. “Brussels is the heart of Europe – easy to reach,” Mieke said. “People can fly in, take a taxi, spend a day or two, and go back. There’s everything here – hotels, restaurants, and good people!”
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Busworld faces the challenge of space rather than demand. “We hope to keep growing, but we’re already full,” Mieke admitted. “This is the biggest venue in Belgium. Either we move to another country or keep it stable here.”
New initiatives such as Busworld Plaza – a year-round networking and knowledge platform – aim to keep the global bus community connected beyond the event.
A 54-Year Legacy
Since its inception in 1971, Busworld has evolved from a local Belgian fair into a global hub for the bus and coach fraternity. “This is my 30th year in Busworld,” Mieke shared. “I’m extremely proud of what we’ve built. Once you enter the bus industry, you never leave. It’s a family.”
For Mieke, that sense of belonging defines the brand’s longevity. “There’s so much warmth in this industry,” she said. “Busworld is not just a professional exhibition – it’s a gathering of people who love what they do.”
As the 2025 edition wrapped up, she extended a simple invitation: “If you’re interested in the bus and coach market, there’s only one place you have to be – and it’s in Brussels.”