Deutsche Bahn has finalized the acquisition of PCC Logistics Group effective July 21. The agreement defining purchase terms for the largest privately owned freight railroad in Poland had been signed in Warsaw at the end of January. The EU Commission approved the takeover on June 12.

With about 5,800 employees and revenues of EUR 350 million (2008), PCC Logistics is the largest privately owned railroad company in Poland. PCC Logistics consists of several regionally operating companies that are specialized mainly in transporting coal, chemicals and construction materials and in sidings services. The company's transport volume in 2008 was about 93 million tons.

In commenting on the successful acquisition, Dr. Karl-Friedrich Rausch, Member of the Management Board of DB Mobility Logistics AG responsible for Transportation and Logistics, said: 'PCC Logistics has now become an integral part of our future-oriented logistics activities on Europe's rails. The company is well positioned. Working together, we will now further develop offers and services for our customers in Poland and on the international corridors and expand our position as the leading European freight railroad.'

The first joint transport services are already operating between Poland and Germany, as well as between Poland and Romania. Preparations are in full swing to launch a new cross-border block train concept as well as additional rail-bound logistics solutions as of the 2009/10 timetable changeover.

Poland plays an important role in developing traffic along the trans-European rail corridors. Poland is the second-largest national rail market within the European Union. Moreover, the country has great potential to further expand rail-bound logistics offers for Polish and international customers.

Talks are underway with the state-owned Polish freight railroad PKP Cargo to continue cooperation with emphasis on maintaining single car transports and strengthening intermodal transports.