PKP Cargo to launch intermodal link between Poland and Turkey
Poland’s largest rail freight operator PKP Cargo is continuing its international expansion. The company has scheduled to launch an intermodal link to Turkey. It will allow the operator to strengthen its stance in the Black Sea region.
Starting from early May, a new container train will run between the Polish city of Gliwice and the Turkish intermodal hub of Izmit, which is located about 100 kilometres from Istanbul. The new intermodal link is arranged by PKP Cargo Connect, a logistics subsidiary of PKP Cargo Group, and Logitrans, a Turkish major logistics provider. Initially, the container train will run between the termini once a week in both directions.
Big potential
PKP Cargo Connect looks forward to the new service. Currently, the company is planning to increase the frequency up to two trains a week. “We are ready to increase the number of trains to two per week by the year’s end. It will depend on the interest among customers in our new intermodal connection,” says Michał Gileta, the company’s manager responsible for intermodal operations.
Additionally, PKP Cargo Group is regarding the new intermodal connection as a crucial step towards strengthening its stance in the Black Sea region. “The launch of trains to Turkey is very important for the PKP Cargo Group as the country is located on principal trade routes, which can boast of a dynamically growing exchange of goods. The operator trains provide opportunities for the PKP Cargo Group to carry out its extensive activities not only in this country, but also in other countries of the Black Sea basin. Strengthening the presence in the North-South transport corridor is one of the priorities of the PKP Cargo Group’s Strategy,” adds Czesław Warsewicz, CEO of PKP Cargo.