Daniel Křetínský among bidders for 49% stake in France's Rail Logistics Europe

Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský, co‑owner of media group CNC, remains one of three interested parties for a 49% share in Rail Logistics Europe (RLE), the largest freight rail operator in France that consolidates the freight divisions of SNCF. The other bidders are German logistics group Rhenus and an undisclosed investment fund; French shipping and logistics company CMA CGM had considered a bid but withdrew.

The sale is a condition of an agreement between the French government and the European Commission to restructure the former Fret SNCF, which faced accusations of illegal state aid. RLE reported first‑half‑year revenue of €948 million, up 3.9%, and EBITDA of €118 million. The company also handles a significant portion of France’s military transport. Křetínský’s EP Group is a major player in European rail freight, with operations in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland and Germany.