Posted 7th October 2013 | 3 Comments
National Express shortlisted for third German franchise
National Express has been shortlisted as a potential operator for the Berlin Ringbahn, which is part of the German capital's suburban network and a broad equivalent of London Overground. It is currently operated by Deutsche Bahn.
National Express Group chief executive Dean Finch said: "We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the Berlin Ringbahn. Following our recent success in winning two contracts to operate regional rail services in North-Rhine Westphalia, it confirms that our experience as the operator of the UK’s leading franchise is recognised internationally. Our strong local team is already focused on putting together a high quality bid to deliver excellent services for customers and the people of Berlin."
National Express has recently agreed extensions to its c2c franchise and its concession to operate Midland Metro trams.
Reader Comments:
Views expressed in submitted comments are that of the author, and not necessarily shared by Railnews.
Roger, Paisley, UK
It's about time a British company made it into European rail. It seemed to be one way traffic with foreign companies running British railways.
Good old EU rules!
MikeB, Liverpool
I suppose at least it proves that some UK-based transport operators are, at last, achieving some success within Europe. We can only hope that evenually, the French will be persuaded to open their passenger rail services to foreign competitors.
Steven Dawson, bristol
National express a leading franchise operator? Give me strength. What about the East Coast? This privatisation is being driven by the EU. Poor old Nord -Rhine, I used to live there.