FS Group has formed a strategic partnership with Certares to establish a joint venture that aims to strengthen Trenitalia France's high-speed rail operations with a €1 billion investment targeted at expanding services in France and the UK.

Overview of the Target Company

Trenitalia France, based in Paris, operates high-speed passenger rail services across key routes including Paris-Lyon, Paris-Marseille, and Paris-Milan. Since commencing operations, the company has served over 4.7 million passengers and boasts some of the highest satisfaction ratings in the industry. With plans for further expansion, Trenitalia France intends to introduce services on the Paris-London route and increase its international offerings.

The new investment will enable Trenitalia France to solidify its position as the second-largest rail operator in France. Key initiatives from the partnership with Certares include expanding the train fleet to at least 19 units, developing a new maintenance facility near Paris, boosting daily service frequencies (up to 28 trains a day on the Paris-Lyon route), creating hundreds of new jobs, and continuing investments in technology, branding, and marketing to enhance international services towards the UK.

Industry Overview in France and the UK

The high-speed rail sector in France has seen significant growth over the last few years, driven by increasing consumer demand for efficient travel options. This growth is supported by an ongoing effort to reduce carbon emi