Leo Express bids for regional train operations in Germany for the first time
Germany is one of the targets for international expansion for the co-owners of Leo Express.
Spain’s state-owned railway company Renfe is trying to break into the public service obligation (PSO) rail business in Germany. Through Leo Express, of which Renfe holds 50%, it is now bidding to operate regional trains in Germany for the first time.
According to Renfe President Isaías Táboas, Leo Express is in pre-qualification for the first tenders. Neither Renfe nor Leo Express have specified which networks are involved. Germany is one of the main countries that the Spanish company wants to enter, the head of Renfe stated. El Economista reported on Leo Express’ interest in the German market after Táboas’ meeting with journalists.
In a statement to CEETransport.com, Leo Express confirmed its interest in the German market. “Expanding in the German rail market is a strategy that Leo Express has long declared. We are interested in open access and PSO transport,” said company spokesman Emil Sedlařík. The operator did not give specific details about the tenders.
Leo Express acquired a license to operate in Germany through its purchase of Locomore, and for a time operated trains in Germany under the Leo Express and later FlixTrain brand. This year, the company plans to expand its international operations and will start operating on the Bratislava – Komárno line in Slovakia in December.
Renfe became interested in Leo Express when the company was authorized to operate in several European countries. Its management is increasingly talking about international expansion. Later this year, Renfe will start operating commercial high-speed trains in France. The company is also considering entering the British market.
Edited and translated by Lucie Trávníčková