France: Launch of 1st Competitively Tendered Regional PSO Rail Concession Operated by an Independent Operator
We warmly congratulate the independent operator Transdev and the French Région Sud (South Region) on the official launch of the Marseille-Toulon-Nice passenger rail service on 29 June 2025.
This is the first time in France that a regional Public Service Obligation ("PSO") rail concession has been awarded to and is operated by an independent operator, following a competitive tender.
This is a major milestone in EU rail reform.
The New Direct Award To Dutch Railways (NS) Will Cost More – For Both Passengers And Taxpayers
Netherlands: The government has directly awarded a new 9-year Public Service Obligation contract (‘PSC’) to state-owned NS to operate the Main Rail Network from 2025 until 2033.
But it is still not finalised: an infringement procedure is ongoing. Market opening would be better - for both passengers & taxpayers.
De Onderhandse Gunning Van Het Hoofdrailnet Aan NS Gaat Meer Kosten – Voor Zowel Reizigers Als Belastingbetalers
De Nederlandse overheid heeft een 9-jarige hoofrailnetconcessie voor de periode 2025 tot en met 2033 onderhands gegund aan NS.
Maar het is nog niet definitief: er loopt een inbreukprocedure. Marktopening zou beter zijn - zowel voor de reizigers als voor de belastingbetalers.
