Despite facing challenges like high energy prices, inflation, and an economic downturn, ÖBB experienced a successful year in business. The company transported 494 million passengers by rail and buses, representing an increase of over ten percent. Long-distance rail transport saw a substantial rise from 38 million to 47 million passengers.
Revenue for ÖBB increased by 5.5 percent to 7.8 billion euros, with a pre-tax profit of 111.6 million euros. However, this was lower than the previous year due to rising costs, particularly in electricity and personnel expenses. The company also made significant investments in infrastructure and new trains.
Punctuality remains a challenge for ÖBB, with targets set at 86 percent for long-distance transport. The company is working to improve punctuality, both in passenger and freight transport. Despite challenges in 2023, ÖBB managed to maintain its position in the market and attract new customers, particularly in rail freight transport.
ÖBB’s CEO Andreas Matthä expressed satisfaction with the company’s performance, surpassing their 2030 goal of 500 million passengers in just a few years. Growing tourism, increased climate awareness, as well as initiatives like Vienna’s comprehensive parking permit contributed to this success. Additionally, the company has expanded internationally with branches in Shanghai and operations in Serbia.
The growth of tourism has been one of the biggest contributors to ÖBB’s success this year. With more people choosing train travel over cars due to environmental concerns and cost savings on fuel and parking fees.
In addition to these factors, Austria’s green agenda has played a significant role in boosting public transportation use across the country.
Furthermore, ÖBB has been investing heavily in improving its infrastructure which will allow it to handle even more traffic as demand continues to grow.
As for future plans for growth and expansion, Matthä stated that he wants ÖBB’s focus on complete transport solutions rather than just providing rail or bus service alone.
“We want our customers to see us as a one-stop-shop for all their transportation needs,” he said.
By doing so they hope to attract even more customers who are looking for convenience and reliability when it comes to traveling by train or bus.