Rail transport continues to prove itself as one of the backbones of the European economy. According to a new Oxford Economics study, the railway sector contributed €247 billion to the EU economy in 2023 - about 1.4% of total EU GDP. That is more than the entire economy of Greece generated in the same year.
Rail is not only the “least carbon-intensive” form of mass transport, as underlined by the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), but also one of Europe’s most powerful economic drivers. The industry employs 3.16 million people - equivalent to 1.6% of the EU labor market. To put it into perspective: fewer people are employed across the whole of Ireland.
The ripple effect is even stronger: every railway job supports an additional 2.6 jobs in other sectors. Meanwhile, supply chains relying on rail infrastructure helped European businesses save €117 billion in 2023 alone.
For logistics, this highlights one fact: investment in railway development and cross-border integration is not optional - it is a strategic necessity. Efficient rail connections mean faster, more reliable, and more sustainable supply chains across Europe.
At LOADSTAR, we emphasize the value of combining road and rail transport. For international shipments, this hybrid model ensures both cost savings and resilience, while also supporting sustainable business practices.
Companies that integrate rail into their logistics not only reduce expenses, but also strengthen their market reputation as reliable and environmentally responsible partners.
Looking for tailored multimodal solutions that combine trucking and rail to optimize your shipments? Contact LOADSTAR today.
