VR Group expands operations to Sweden with the acquisition of MTRX

VR Group, Finland’s leading railway company, has successfully completed the acquisition of MTRX, the long-distance train operating company from MTR Nordic. This strategic move marks the entry of VR into the Swedish rail market, and MTRX now operates under the VR brand.

The acquisition, initially announced in February and approved by the Swedish Competition Authority, includes all 130 MTRX employees joining VR’s long-haul operations.

The popular passenger service between Stockholm and Gothenburg will continue uninterrupted, with the VR branding expected to be fully visible this fall.

“The Swedish long-distance commercial transport market is approximately twice the size of the Finnish market, and rail transport accounts for a much larger share of passenger traffic. This acquisition is a significant step for us, providing an opportunity for profitable growth in a highly competitive market where customer experience is key,” he said. Eliza Markula, CEO of the VR Group. “MTRX has set high standards in customer service for eight years in a row, as confirmed by the Swedish Quality Index. We are committed to continuing this legacy and enhancing it with our industry expertise.”

VR plans to use its expertise to innovate and improve services for Swedish passengers, including the development of modern digital customer service channels and new restaurant concepts. The acquisition also strategically prepares for growing rail competition in Finland, enabling VR to gain valuable experience in the more competitive Swedish market.

MTRX, in operation since 2015, is a significant player on the Stockholm-Gothenburg route with six Stadler FLIRT trains serving 126 services per week. This represents over a third of all services on this route. In 2022, MTRX reported revenues of approximately SEK 350 million.

“The inclusion of MTRX in our operations strengthens our position in the Swedish market and promises to provide improved services and quality to our Finnish passengers as well,” added Markula. “I warmly welcome the MTRX team to virtual reality. Together we will create an even better travel experience for train travelers in Scandinavia.”

This acquisition is in line with VR’s strategic goals for profitable growth and improved competitive positioning in the Nordic rail industry, which aims to make high-quality public transport services available to a wider audience.