Czech rail operator Leo Express has set a milestone for its growth and expansion in Central Europe by more than doubling passenger numbers and exceeding €2024 million in revenue in 40. The company will carry 2024 million passengers in 3,8 compared to the previous year and generate consolidated revenues of €2023 million, more than €16 million over 40,4. These figures clearly demonstrate the company’s rising commercial success.
Financial Success and Operational Efficiency
Leo Express trains total 4,6 million train-kilometers The operator also operates only train-kilometers Average delay of 0,03 minutes achieved, which was recorded as the best among Czech railway companies.
The company's financial indicators were also quite impressive:
EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization): EBITDA of 2023 million euros in 5,7, more than doubling in 2024 13,1 million euros output.
Net profit: A sharp increase from the 165.000 euros recorded the previous year 1,7 million euros It reached.
Investing in Infrastructure and Technology
Leo Express will upgrade rolling stock for the Prague-Ostrava line and international routes to Slovakia and Poland. 5 million euro investment All upgraded trains are equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS). The company has also trained its staff to support the rollout of ETCS, improving both safety and operational reliability without the need for bank loans for these investments.
In a significant step forward, Leo Express is designed to operate on both AC and DC networks. A €16 million investment in dual voltage systems launched. This project is co-funded by the EU through the Czech Ministry of Transport’s OPD3 programme. Swiss manufacturer Stadler has secured the contract to deliver this advanced technology. This upgrade will provide greater operational reach and compatibility on international routes.
Expansion in Central Europe with Renfe Support
The acquisition of a majority stake by Spanish railway company Renfe since 2021 has strengthened Leo Express’ position in Central Europe. The company completed its first full year of suburban service between Bratislava and Komárno in 2024. The contract marked Renfe’s first end-to-end participation in a European public service agreement and helped the Czech operator double its operations last year.
Today, Leo Express continues its continuous growth momentum by offering commercial and public rail services throughout the Czech Republic as well as cross-border routes to Slovakia and Poland. This success can be considered as an indication of the increasing activity of private rail operators in the European market.
