Europe’s rail freight: Logistics solutions along key transport corridors

Interview with András Riegler, CEO

Power on the rails: Modern locomotives form the backbone of GYSEV CARGO’s rail freight operations

Efficient logistics are a cornerstone of modern economies, especially when transporting goods across borders. In the international rail freight sector, companies must combine efficiency with strong networks and strategic vision – this is where GYSEV CARGO Zrt. positions itself. Building on a long railway tradition while expanding logistics services, the company connects key industrial regions and transport corridors across Europe. In this interview, CEO András Riegler discusses the changing dynamics of the rail freight market, the role of intermodal transport and the priorities shaping the company’s future.

European Business: Mr. Riegler, GYSEV CARGO operates in the European rail freight sector. Could you briefly introduce the company?

András Riegler: GYSEV CARGO is a rail logistics company headquartered in Sopron, Hungary. Our roots go back to 1872, so we are part of a long railway tradition in the region. Today we focus on international rail freight transport and offer logistics solutions across several European markets. We combine long-standing railway expertise with modern logistics solutions for industrial customers across Europe.

European Business: How is the company structured today?

András Riegler: GYSEV CARGO is part of the GYSEV Group, a railway company with strong historical ties to state railway infrastructure, and operates internationally. In addition to our headquarters in Hungary, we have subsidiaries and activities in several countries, including Austria as well as a location in Romania. This international structure allows us to organize cross-border transport efficiently and serve customers along important Central and Eastern European freight corridors.

European Business: What services do you offer to your customers?

András Riegler: Our core business is rail freight transport. This includes both conventional wagonload transport and combined transport solutions. We connect rail services with additional logistics activities and develop tailored solutions together with our customers. In addition, we operate our own logistics facilities and terminals, for example in Sopron and Debrecen, which function as important hubs for handling and coordinating international freight flows along the transport chain.

Efficient logistics infrastructure: At its facilities in Sopron, GYSEV CARGO handles and coordinates freight flows that move goods reliably across international transport corridors

Freight in motion: GYSEV CARGO trains keep industrial supply chains moving, connecting production sites, logistics hubs and international markets

European Business: What role does intermodal transport play for your company?

András Riegler: Intermodal transport has become increasingly important in recent years. In the past, around 75% of our business consisted of conventional transport and about 25% of combined solutions. Today the intermodal segment continues to grow because many customers require flexible logistics concepts that combine rail, road and other transport solutions.

European Business: How do you assess the current market situation in rail freight transport?

András Riegler: The market environment is currently quite challenging. Several industries, particularly the automotive sector, are producing less, which directly affects transport volumes. At the same time, we face strong competition and rising costs, which means efficiency and reliable logistics networks are more important than ever.

Logistics hub from above: The container terminal in Sopron plays a key role in coordinating rail freight and intermodal transport along major European routes

European Business: How important are partnerships and cooperation in this environment?

András Riegler: Cooperation is a key success factor for us. Logistics is a highly interconnected industry where collaboration with partners is essential. By working closely with other railway companies, terminals and logistics providers, we can offer integrated solutions and manage complex international transport chains efficiently.

European Business: Could you share some key figures about the company?

András Riegler: GYSEV CARGO employs around 227 people and generates annual revenue of approximately EUR 57.96 million EUR. Each year we transport several million tons of goods and achieve transport performance of several hundred million ton-km, which reflects our stable position in the European rail freight market despite challenging economic conditions.

A key step in the transport chain: At the terminal, containers are transferred between rail and road, keeping international supply chains moving

European Business: What strategic priorities do you have for the coming years?

András Riegler: Our strategy focuses on expanding our international activities while strengthening our logistics services. This includes developing intermodal transport solutions and exploring new projects in different European markets. At the same time, sustainable and long-term development remains a central objective for us.

European Business: What personally motivates you in your role?

András Riegler: What motivates me most is the dynamic nature of the logistics industry. Transport and infrastructure are essential for the functioning of modern economies. By providing efficient and sustainable transport solutions, we contribute not only to our customers’ success but also to the future of rail freight in Europe, which will play an increasingly important role in making supply chains more sustainable and resilient.