Business model

With buses, trains, trams, water buses, car- and bike-­­sharing systems, DB Arriva offers a wide range of transport solutions. The activities of DB Arriva are divided into three lines of business: UK Bus, UK Trains, and Mainland Europe.

Volume sold and volume produced are important key performance figures. In addition to revenues from fares, subsidies are an important source of income. Revenues from fares are the only source of income for transport services operated on a purely commercial basis.

Predefined terms of transport contracts, concessions and route concessions, combined with the complex production system, result in a cost structure with a high proportion of fixed costs. The major drivers are personnel, maintenance, energy and track access charges in case of rail services. Only a small portion of expenses vary with the bus or train capacity utilization.

Throughout Europe, DB Arriva works with local, regional and national authorities to bring new and improved services to customers. DB Arriva’s regional presence allows it to quickly respond to changes, especially new regulatory requirements and changing customer expectations. DB Arriva works closely with its customers to develop efficient, tailor-­­made and sustainable transport solutions.

Customers particularly appreciate the experience that DB Arriva has with operating various transport solutions and DB Arriva’s commitment to providing high-­­quality, reliable, efficient and cost-­­effective services.