Avis Budget Group is preparing to wind down Zipcar’s UK operations, marking the end of one of the country’s most established car‑sharing networks.
The move, confirmed following a formal consultation process, will see all UK member accounts closed in mid‑February.
For business travellers who rely on flexible, short‑term urban mobility, the withdrawal removes a long‑standing option—particularly in London, where Zipcar has been a fixture for nearly two decades.
What’s Changing
- Zipcar has stopped accepting new bookings in the UK.
- All member accounts will be deactivated on 17 February.
- The decision is part of Avis Budget’s wider effort to streamline its portfolio and refocus on long‑term profitability.
The company had already scaled back its footprint over the past year, withdrawing from Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford to concentrate on London. Despite this consolidation, the UK operation will now close entirely.
Zipcar Beyond the UK
While the UK service is ending, Zipcar will continue to operate in several other markets, including the US, Canada and Iceland, where demand for car‑sharing remains strong.
What It Means for Business Travellers
For frequent travellers who used Zipcar for last‑mile mobility, quick client visits or flexible urban transport, the closure narrows the field of on‑demand car‑share options in major UK cities. It may also accelerate interest in alternative mobility services—from traditional rentals to emerging subscription‑based or electric‑only fleets.