Lyft completes acquisition of FREENOW doubling global reach
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Lyft has finalised its acquisition of FREENOW, combining two major mobility platforms under one international brand. The move effectively doubles Lyft’s potential market, expanding access to more than 300 billion personal vehicle trips annually.
The integration opens the door for wider coverage across North America and Europe. Since the start of 2024, users have opened the Lyft app 4.6 million times in FREENOW markets, while the FREENOW app has recorded 1.2 million opens in Lyft territories.
The two companies will operate as one, bringing together technology, customer support, and platform reach. European riders opening the Lyft app will now be directed to FREENOW, and the reverse will apply in North America. Both apps are preparing for increased roaming capabilities, allowing riders to access services across regions.
A welcome offer of up to 50% off the first ride is now available to new users on either side of the Atlantic. Additionally, Chase cardholders will soon earn extra points on qualifying rides taken in Europe using eligible credit cards.
For drivers, the integration is expected to boost demand and ride volume. In North America, Lyft continues to maintain a strong driver preference, with a 29-point lead over its main competitor in the US as of Q2 2025. In Europe, FREENOW remains focused on the taxi sector, supported by over 150,000 professional drivers and long-standing partnerships.
Leadership at FREENOW will remain in place, reporting into Lyft’s EVP of Driver Experience, Jeremy Bird. Local management in Ireland, the UK, and seven other European countries will continue leading operations.
Lyft now delivers rideshare and taxi services in 11 countries and close to 1,000 cities. Bikeshare coverage has also expanded to over 86 cities across 16 countries through Lyft Urban Solutions.
The acquisition will not affect Lyft’s Q2 financial results.
David Risher, Lyft CEO, said: “Every conversation I've had with FREENOW drivers and team members has reminded me why we’re joining forces: to bring the best of each company to the other.
“This isn't just about growing our business. It's about serving and connecting people worldwide.”
Thomas Zimmermann, FREENOW CEO, said: “We’re not changing what makes FREENOW special - our deep local relationships throughout Europe - but we are amplifying it.
“With Lyft’s platform and resources behind us, we can innovate faster and serve drivers, passengers, and city partners even better.”
