SBB Cargo International has launched SBB Cargo France, offering an alternative route as the Rhine-Alpine corridor north of Basel reaches capacity limits.
© SBB Cargo International
SBB Cargo International is expanding its reach into France through the recently founded SBB Cargo France, which has now received its safety certificate.
The Swiss logistics railways group is strengthening its role as market leader on the Rhine-Alpine corridor. “From the start of operations foreseen at the next timetable change, some services will be operated via France,” SBB Cargo said.
The establishment of SBB’s fifth subsidiary was prepared by Managing Director Omar Zerkly and Production Manager Amir Ounzerfi over the past two years. On 21 November, the company based in Huningue, Alsace, received the safety certificate for France from the European Railway Agency (ERA).
Swiss roll via France
“The Rhine-Alpine corridor north of Basel is reaching its capacity limits, which will probably not be sorted out until the 2040s. The route via France is an important alternative for SBB Cargo International’s transport operations,” argues the Swiss rail operator. “The expansion into France (with an operational site in Yutz/Thionville) will enable us to operate on the left bank of the Rhine, [and] in addition to follow prospective growth, in order to avoid cancellations in the event of infrastructure bottlenecks in Germany and therefore to offer resilience to our customers.”
At present SBB Cargo International estimates it has a 37% market share of freight rail volumes over the Alps.
*This story first appeared in the December print issue of WorldCargo News
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