News

Increased continental rail competition drives Trainline growth

Trainline claimed to be Europe’s most downloaded rail app as it reported international net tickets sales surpassing £1 billion in the last financial year.

The company cited increased competition with new entrant firms “revolutionising” rail travel on the continent, with the exception of France and Germany.

Overall net ticket sales grew 22% year-on-year to £5.3 billion in the 12 months to February 29.

The annual pre-tax profit more than doubled year-on-year from £22 million to £48 million.

Trainline reported strong growth in mobile app downloads, helping  combined growth in sales across Spain and Italy of 43% over the previous 12 months.

However, the company said: “Combined net ticket sales across France and Germany grew 3% YoY, reflecting Trainline’s decision to pause brand marketing in France until the arrival of more widespread carrier competition. 

“Germany remains a small part of the portfolio today and unattractive from an investment perspective until we see improved commercial terms and the arrival of carrier competition.”

Chief executive Jody Ford said: “New entrant carrier competition is revolutionising rail in Europe as more customers benefit from greater choice, lower prices and the opportunity to choose greener travel. 

“We are becoming the aggregator of choice in the UK and internationally and are delivering strong growth, particularly in those markets liberalising fastest such as Spain.

“With four carrier brands competing across its high-speed rail network, we have doubled domestic ticket sales in Spain for the second year running and significantly grown our market share on the top routes. 

“With new entrant carrier competition set to ramp up in Italy, France and the UK in the coming years, the opportunity grows to create a golden age of rail travel.”

Share article

View Comments

Jacobs Media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 Queen's Award for Enterprise.

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more.