Germany’s state-owned railway operator, Deutsche Bahn (DB), recorded net losses of nearly EUR 1.8 billion in 2024 following the sale of its profitable logistics division, Schenker, according to documents reviewed by Reuters.
Despite the losses, DB improved its net result by almost EUR 1 billion compared to 2023, as it continues to grapple with an ageing railway infrastructure while aiming to restore profitability by 2027.
The company reported operational losses of approximately EUR 330 million before taxes and duties in 2024. However, its cargo division and regional services remained profitable over the past year.
A company spokesperson declined to comment on the figures ahead of the official financial results announcement scheduled for 27 March.
To reduce debt and refocus on its core rail business, Deutsche Bahn sold Schenker to Danish company DSV in 2023 for EUR 14 billion.
Germany’s ageing railway infrastructure remains a challenge for Deutsche Bahn, though the company hopes to benefit from a proposed EUR 500 billion special fund, which the new government plans to use for infrastructure investment.
Recently published figures show that DB paid nearly EUR 197 million in compensation for delays and cancellations in 2024, following around 6.9 million passenger complaints. This marks a rise from 5.6 million complaints in 2023, when the company paid EUR 132.8 million in compensation.
According to Deutsche Bahn representatives, 80% of delays are caused by outdated and overburdened infrastructure.
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