Rachel Picard and Tim Jackson, two highly experienced and respected leaders in the railway world, together with Antin Infrastructure Partners (Paris), today announce the launch of Proxima, France’s first independent high-speed train company.
Proxima represents a significant step forward in the high-speed rail travel sector in France, responding to the growing demand for fast, low-carbon inter-urban travel. The new operator will provide more than 10 million new seats per year, offering passengers additional options to travel efficiently and sustainably. Over the past decade, travel between major French cities has surged, driven by evolving lifestyles and preferences for environmentally friendly transport. High-speed rail has become the preferred mode of travel for many French citizens, with train occupancy levels reaching record highs.
Initially, Proxima will connect four key western French cities — Bordeaux, Nantes, Rennes, and Angers — with Paris. These routes have shown strong demand in recent years due to vibrant economic and business activities, leisure travel, and population growth. By tapping into this demand, Proxima aims to enhance travel experiences and offer superior service to its passengers.
The project, led by Rachel Picard and Tim Jackson, is supported by the financial backing of Antin Infrastructure Partners. Proxima has signed a memorandum of understanding with Alstom to purchase 12 Avelia Horizon high-speed trains, the latest in rail technology, ensuring top-notch service and reliability. Additionally, Proxima has secured an agreement with Lisea for the use of its new maintenance depot in Marcheprime, near Bordeaux, ensuring the upkeep and efficiency of its fleet.
Proxima’s launch signifies a new era in French rail travel, emphasizing the importance of green mobility. The company is dedicated to reinventing the travel experience by catering to the evolving needs of its customers, such as the increasing trend of teleworking and the blending of business and leisure travel. Enhanced on-board connectivity and customer-centric services will be hallmarks of Proxima’s offerings, reflecting the changing ways of life and consumer behavior.
As France’s first independent high-speed train operator, Proxima is set to make a substantial impact on the rail travel landscape, offering a robust, quality service that aligns with the country’s move towards sustainable, high-speed transportation.