French Connections: Interview Jean-Pierre Farandou

Jean-Pierre Farandou is one of SNCF’s most senior executives. His portfolio includes international transport group Keolis, which has a stake in four UK rail franchises. James Dark spoke to him about his strategy for expansion in the UK and elsewhere

Jean-Pierre Farandou is director general of SNCF Proximites, the branch of the French state railways which owns 57% of Keolis

Jean-Pierre Farandou is director general of SNCF Proximites, the branch of the French state railways which owns 57% of Keolis

SNCF has agreed to contribute half the cost of future orders for new Francilien commuter trains, but financial pressures have put investment in doubt

SNCF has agreed to contribute half the cost of future orders for new Francilien commuter trains, but financial pressures have put investment in doubt

The current merger discussions between Arriva and French operator Keolis appear certain to kick off a new wave of consolidation in the European passenger transport industry. Whether or not the Arriva/Keolis deal eventually goes ahead, French groups are being actively encouraged to increase their presence on the world stage by their government as restrictions on competition are lifted. The ripples are being felt throughout the European transport industry as a whole.

The move towards the...