Trading Statement

National Express Group PLC
28 June 2004





Embargoed for release at 0700 hours on 28 June 2004



                       National Express Group PLC
                        Pre-close Trading Update


National Express Group ('the Group') today reports on trading for the six months
to 30 June 2004, prior to entering its close period.  The Group confirms that
trading remains in line with market expectations.


Passenger volumes across our trains division remain encouraging with an average
growth of 5%. We are close to agreeing a two year extension on our Silverlink
franchise with the Strategic Rail Authority ('SRA') which will provide further
stability for this franchise as the SRA's West Coast mainline strategy is
delivered.  Integration of the 'One' operations continues to progress well with
good operational performance to date.


The coach division has experienced a strong start to the year with an increase
in passenger numbers of 6%, boosted by additional services. We approach the peak
trading months with optimism.


Our bus division continues to perform satisfactorily.  We are pleased with our
entry into London and believe that there are good growth prospects for the Group
in this market.


In North America, we have completed a successful school bid season and our
continuing focus on operating efficiencies within public transit has resulted in
a further improvement in margins.


The Group will announce its interim results on Thursday 29 July 2004.


                                    - ENDS -

For further information, please contact:

Adam Walker, Finance Director
Nicola Marsden/Fiona Noblet, Group Communications
National Express Group PLC                                   020 7529 2000

Jonathon Brill/Ben Foster/Dido Laurimore
Financial Dynamics                                           020 7831 3113






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