Omio Group has reached an agreement to acquire Rail Europe, a move that would create one of the world’s largest rail distribution businesses and significantly strengthen its position in the global ground transportation market.
If completed, Rail Europe will join Omio Group’s portfolio alongside the Omio consumer booking platform, its B2B distribution business, and travel discovery platform Rome2Rio. Together, the combined business would sell around 22 million train tickets annually, connect with more than 28,000 transport operators and travel sellers, and offer one of the industry’s most comprehensive multimodal travel networks.
Rail Europe will continue operating under its well-established brand, serving both leisure travelers and travel trade partners. At the same time, it will gain access to Omio Group’s technology platform, multimodal inventory, and digital capabilities.
The acquisition also gives Omio access to Rail Europe’s extensive global network of travel agencies and rail operators spanning more than 70 countries.
Combined with Rail Europe’s 90-plus years of rail expertise and internationally recognized brand, the deal is expected to significantly expand Omio’s global customer base and distribution reach.
The announcement comes as the rail sector enters a period of rapid growth. The global rail market is forecast to surpass $300 billion by 2032, supported by major government investments across Europe aimed at expanding rail infrastructure, increasing capacity, and encouraging travelers to shift from road and air transport to more sustainable rail services.
Jean-Francois Bessiron, Chief B2B Officer at Omio Group, described the acquisition as a milestone for the industry.
“This deal marks a transformative moment for the future of global ground transport,” Bessiron said. “Together, Omio and Rail Europe would create a company with the technology and scale to make connected, accessible and affordable rail travel a reality for travelers worldwide. The sector has long been limited by outdated systems and a lack of competition.“
Björn Bender, CEO and Executive Chairman of Rail Europe, said the acquisition builds on the company’s recent transformation.
“The past few years have been transformational for Rail Europe. Together with our teams and partners, we established an independent business and a unique position in the global rail market,” Bender said. “Omio brings significant scale and innovative technology, while Rail Europe contributes decades of rail expertise, a trusted international brand and one of the industry’s strongest B2B distribution networks. Together, we can deliver greater value to travelers, partners and the rail industry than either company could achieve independently.“
The transaction remains subject to consultation with Rail Europe’s Comité Social et Économique (CSE), the company’s employee representative body in France, which must issue an advisory opinion before the acquisition can be finalized. The deal will close only after that consultation process has been completed.
