The French government has announced its decision to award SNCF Voyageurs the contract to operate the Nantes-Bordeaux and Nantes-Lyon rail lines until 2036. This decision follows a competitive tender process that marked a significant step in the opening of France’s rail sector to competition.
On January 28, Philippe Tabarot, Minister of Transport under the Minister of Territorial Planning and Decentralization, confirmed the government’s intention to grant SNCF Voyageurs the contract for the “Lot A” routes, which serve 19 stations across five regions. The French national rail operator successfully outbid Spain’s Renfe and high-speed start-up Le Train, solidifying its position as a key player in France’s evolving railway landscape.
SNCF Voyageurs expressed its satisfaction with the government’s decision, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in rail operations. The final proposal, submitted weeks ago, was the result of significant investment and strategic planning since 2022. By mobilizing top-tier expertise in rail service production and customer experience, SNCF Voyageurs aimed to meet the state’s ambitions for a more sustainable, reliable, and accessible transport network.
Passenger demand on the Nantes-Bordeaux and Nantes-Lyon routes has already surged since 2022, following the addition of more train services. Under the new contract, SNCF Voyageurs will operate these lines for 10 years starting in December 2026. The agreement covers operations, maintenance, customer relations, and some marketing responsibilities. Additionally, a new maintenance facility is set to be built in Nantes by 2030 in partnership with infrastructure firm NGE.
Operations for these routes will be managed by a dedicated subsidiary within SNCF Voyageurs, ensuring resources are tailored to meet the expectations of the organizing authority and the commitments made under the contract. Local teams will focus on delivering a dynamic and customer-oriented service, aligning with regional transport projects.
“We thank the Minister of Transport and the teams at DGITM for recognizing our efforts in this landmark tender for the TET (trains d’équilibre du territoire) network. This trust commits us, and we are fully mobilized to meet expectations. I want to commend all SNCF Voyageurs teams, particularly Intercités, for their dedication. This victory demonstrates our ability to innovate and enhance service quality at the best cost,” Christophe Fanichet, CEO of SNCF Voyageurs, said.
“Congratulations to the entire team, which faced strong competition. We are embarking on a new challenge, and I have full confidence in our ability to deliver this demanding service. This success is also a recognition of all the teams committed to ensuring the best possible service for passengers on these key routes and across the TET network,” Amandine Thomas-Commin, Director of Intercités, added.
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