Last month Swiss Federal Railways invited expressions of interest from companies wishing to form a partnership with its loss-making freight business, SBB Cargo. The deadline for submitting offers of interest was September 22. SBB described the move as an attempt to improve rail's competitive position against road in the international market, to provide better service on domestic routes and to 'strengthen profitability and financial efficiency'. Of particular interest is the requirement for the partner, or partners, to help improve SBB's domestic wagonload service - SBB is anxious to secure its future in a business that is all too often unprofitable on a small network. Initial offers will be evaluated against specified criteria before SBB chooses bidders for detailed negotiations. It is aiming to have a deal finalised during the first half of 2009. The Swiss national operator, which is being advised by McKinsey, is prepared to discuss options 'with all interested parties', whether they are based in Switzerland or elsewhere. It is looking for 'significant contributions' to the objective of switching traffic from road to rail and improving the competitiveness of the intermodal business.
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