PKP Cargo enhances its presence in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
PKP Cargo is consistently building a position on markets across the southern border of Poland; it has the acquisition of local carriers on its agenda
At the end of September 2014, the Czech regulator issued a test certificate for ST44 series PKP Cargo diesel locomotives. The Polish carrier can now enter the Czech Republic using six different locomotive types. It can also use them in Slovakia. These engines will be a reserve pool for electric multi-system Siemens locomotives.
“The strategy of PKP Cargo envisages organic growth abroad. We do not make wild promises. In order to meet the demand for our services, we are preparing more locomotives that can operate on tracks outside Poland. Whenever possible, it is a good idea to adapt the engines we already have to operate on tracks abroad. This way we have obtained permission for as many as six types of locomotives from the PKP CARGO rolling stock to enter the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Soon we will also issue an invitation to tender for multi-system locomotives, to be used on significantly longer routes. This way we want to continue increasing PKP Cargo’s share in foreign markets”, says Wojciech Derda, Chief Operations Officer at PKP Cargo.
The position of PKP Cargo in the Czech Republic and in Slovakia can be strengthened by acquiring local carriers. In September, the Polish rail transport company signed a letter of intent which guaranteed it exclusive rights to negotiate potential acquisition of the above-mentioned company AWT. The Czech company carries out rail transports in several countries, including Slovenia, Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia.
To carry out independent transport operations, a foreign carrier has to hold so-called part B of the safety certificate, which is issued by the national regulator. PKP Cargoobtained this document from Slovaks in 2011. Recently, it has been extended until May 2019. The Czechs issued a certificate to the Polish carrier in 2010. It remains valid until January 2015. PKP Cargo may carry out independent transport operations in eight countries, including – besides the Czech Republic and Slovakia – Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Hungary and Lithuania.
Quelle: Ă–sterreichische Verkehrszeitung
Portal: www.logistik-express.com
