Rail Online expands to the UK market, eyes North America

Rail Online expands to the UK market, eyes North America

Rail Online has spread its wings and expanded to the United Kingdom’s £10 billion domestic rail market following the official launch this week of its new UK booking app.

The app allows travellers to use mobile devices to book and pay for point-to-point fares on all UK rail networks. Prices are the same as those offered by rail operators.

Founder and chief executive James Dunne said the UK is a price driven market dominated by electronic ticketing, making it “the perfect time for a nimble and ambitious player to challenge the status quo.”

Rail Online’s international expansion comes a little over a year since the launch in Australia and New Zealand of its booking platform, underpinned by global rail technology leader SilverRail.

Rail Online CEO James Dunne

The platform quickly set a new benchmark for booking rail online by making it easier and more efficient to search, compare, book and self-manage ‘live’ rail inventory, priced in local currencies.

Since then, the rail specialist has broadened its product range through the addition of key carriers such as Amtrak, Eurostar and France’s TGV – in the process establishing itself as the only company in Oceania offering European and North American rail products on a single booking platform.

Rail Online has also attracted financial backing from a range of investors – including Dubai-based venture capital firm Dale Ventures – which Dunne says has helped fast-track growth and international expansion.

Rail Online’s next target will be the North American market.

“We are already seeing a growing number of consumers in the United States and Canada using our website to purchase European high speed rail tickets and passes. Establishing a presence in North America will allow us to accelerate that trend, while tapping into the domestic market for sales of Amtrak and VIA Rail journeys.”


Featured Image: Rail Online’s James Dunne and Kirsty Blows (Supplied by Rail Online)

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