The episode has undoubtedly guaranteed a stricter regulatory framework. While the rail passenger market currently consists of 25 separate franchises, further concentration is anticipated. Based on experience in the bus industry, it is expected that the passenger rail market will soon become dominated by five or six major operators, each of which will have a range of transport interests. Setting aside the issue of new private sector ownership, there are a number of further reasons to believe that the rail industry will undergo a resurgence as the century closes. Firstly, as in other developed countries, there is increasing concern in the UK about the environmental impacts of transport-related activity.
Rail transport has an image that is seen as very environmentally-friendly.
Moreover, as passenger travel becomes increasingly international in character, the opening of the Channel Tunnel and development of a pan-European rail transport system will give rail travel a significant competitive advantage. As road congestion worsens, and improved service levels gradually alter public perceptions about travelling by train, rail travel's share of the overall passenger market will again start to increase. More Information Key Note are leading publishers of market research reports. Sift Group Ltd. All rights reserved. A Sift community - supporting 230,000 business professionals in their work.