Sweden’s rail operator, SJ, has recorded a substantial increase in profits in the first six months of this year, bolstered by improving passenger numbers on key routes.
SJ has reported a SEK 171 million increase in operating profits to SEK 330 million. Underlying profits rose from SEK 190 million to SEK 316 million.
As well as a positive financial outlook, passenger numbers also increased in the first half of 2015, particularly on the Gothenburg-Malmö route which saw patronage grow by 25 per cent.
SJ said it was also on target with its aim of reducing the group’s costs by SEK 1 billion by the end of 2016.
Crister Fritzson, chief executive of SJ, said: “Our focus on efficiency improvements and cost reduction delivers results and allows for the future investment needs in new and existing trains.
“We are now even better equipped to meet competition and to continue offering an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative.”
