ÖBB Annual Report 2023

For a reliable future 20 G eopolitical influences, high energy costs and, as a result, an industrial recession in key markets led to a significant drop in demand and a noticeable decline in capacity utilisation for the Rail Cargo Group in 2023. In addition, there was a glaring disadvantage compared to the road: while the price of electricity more than tripled in 2023 compared to pre- crisis levels, the price of diesel only rose by just over 20 percent. This particularly affected single wagonload transport (EWV) and continental intermodal transport, where rail is in direct competition with trucks. Clemens Först, CEO of the Rail Cargo Group: “In my view, we are experiencing the most difficult phase in rail freight transport since the major financial crisis in 2008. We are therefore very proud that, in addition to active crisis management, we have not only maintained the transport chains and networks, but have also invested heavily in an attractive rail logistics service.” New customers, new markets RCG is responding to the needs of companies and is increasingly focussing on multimodal logistics solutions. One example of this is the transport for the beverage manufacturer Brau Union Österreich and the Spar retail chain. The specially developed logistics Digitalisation and end-to-end logistics solutions from RCG make rail freight transport more attractive. MULTI-MODAL LOGISTICS. Innovative MOBILER makes goods handling possible even without a siding and crane For sustainable freight transport RAIL CARGO GROUP. The Rail Cargo Group remains on course to offer the economy sustainable and innovative rail logistics solutions, despite being at an increased disadvantage in competition with road transport.