Railway Industry in France

TGV 1

1. Industry Overview:

In France, one of the most popular transport modes is train.  SNCF is France’s national railway, providing high speed, overnight and local services in France and beyond into Spain, Switzerland and Italy.

>> http://www.tgv-europe.com/en

Types of Train in France:

01-TGV

02-Lunea

03-Teoz

04-TER

06-Intercites

Railway industry is quite similar to airline industry, as it sells seats for a transport from an origin to a destination. The price depends on journey, class, and date of booking. Thus, railway industry can be placed in Quadrant 2, where its service has variable prices for a predictable duration. This industry also has the appropriate characteristics to apply revenue management strategies. Those characteristics are:

– Inflexible capacity: the number of seats on a train is fixed

– Variable and uncertain demand: the demand is different depending on the time of day, day of week, origin-destination pairs, and purpose of travel

– Perishable inventory: the unoccupied seat cannot be inventoried, and the revenue of that seat is missed

– Low marginal cost and high production cost

– Product can be sold in advance

– Heterogeneous customers with different segments, varying by age, purpose of travel, independent or group, etc.

However, there are some differences that make the revenue management of railway industry is little bit different than that of airline industry.

More difficult to forecast demand and to have the accurate number of travelers on a service: no check-in procedure, open tickets (rail pass) generally allow passengers to travel on any rail service, walk up tickets are very common (a large number of passengers purchase their tickets on the day from the station)

Less difficult to deal with overbooking: passengers are often allowed to stand during train journeys hence increasing capacity beyond the number of seats

———

 2. Space

Railway industry defines space implicitly.

Normally, a train has two classes: Economy (2nd Class) and Comfort (1st Class). The seating options and services are different for each class. The price is same for different seating options in a class.

 Economy Class:
01-Class2
 Comfort Class:

01-Class 1

Trains, especially TGV has “TGV bar”, which provides a wide selection of meals and sweet snacks available for purchase. Additionally, the TGV bar offers films on DVD, magazines, games for children, Paris Metro tickets, even USB sticks for purchase. There is also a rolling snack cart that comes to the customers’ seats.

01-TGV Bar

For additional revenue, TGV offers Premium service includes 1st Class seat, meal service, and access to the TGV lounge at the train stations.

Personally, I would charge difference fares for different seating options in each class. A group will want to pay more to have a Club 4 seat. A couple will want the Duo seat or Club 2 seat. And an individual traveler will want a solo seat. As the number of seat are fixed, we can charge for each option, rather than a “first comes first served” policy.

I’m also thinking about a mini-cinema on train, especially overnight train. Normally, the overnight train have load factor less than 80%, so the train can use one car to transform into a mini-cinema with a projector and a screen. When the train is busy, the car will be transformed in normal guest car again.

——

3. Time

Railway industry defines time implicitly.

Although the duration of a journey is determined, the railway industry sells a journey rather than specifically selling time. In addition, there may be issues that cause the increase/decrease in duration of the journey.

However, the railway industry also tries to sell time explicitly with the Rail pass. With Rail pass, customers can have unlimited travel on the national rail network of France for a fixed number of days. The choices are 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9-day pass within a one-month period. Travel days may be used consecutively or non-consecutively.  Thus, the fare becomes rate-per-day, not anymore rate-per-trip.

>> http://www.raileurope.com/rail-tickets-passes/france-pass/index.html

The industry can sell time explicitly by providing Rail pass with weekly or monthly unit. However, I think it will not be effective as it makes the demand forecasting much more complicated.  Half-day unit won’t make sense as a trip is normally more than 3 hours.

——–

4. Price

Tickets can be purchased 60 to 120 days in advance depending on the route.

Ticket discounts are based on advance purchase, availability, and certain restrictions. Everyone is eligible to receive discounted fares by purchasing an Economy or Comfort class ticket in advance. Youth and seniors can enjoy specific discounts as well. Discounted tickets are available for youth (under 26 of age), seniors (age 60 and over) and children (generally ages 4-11) but should be verified with each product.

Price at 1 week before departure
01-Price-1st class-10AM-1wk

Price at 2 weeks before departure

01-Price-1st class-10AM-2wk

Price at 3 weeks before departure

01-Price-1st class-10AM-3wk

Price at 4 weeks before departure

01-Price-1st class-10AM-4wk

Normally, prices are reduced for 1or 2 week-advanced purchase, slightly reduced for 3-week-advanced purchased, and stay same for more-than-4-week-advanced purchase.

The physical rate fences are the classes:
01-Booking-Class

 

The non-physical rate fences are age, season ticket, and loyalty

01-Booking-Rate Fences-1

01-Booking-Rate Fences-2

01-Booking-Rate Fences-3

01-Booking-Rate Fences-4

As the rate fences are now already too sophisticated, I would rather consolidate these fences than create new fences to confuse customers.

 

(-Thao Ly)

——–

References:

http://www.raileurope.com

http://www.tgv-europe.com

http://www.sncf.co.uk/

Amstrong and Messneir, 2010. Railway revenue management: Overview and Methods

Schroeder, Braun, and Schnieder. Revenue management in the railway industry

 

165,419 thoughts on “Railway Industry in France

  1. I am upbeat to locate your recognized method for composing the post. Presently you make it simple for me to comprehend and execute the idea. Much obliged to you for the post.  英文補習

  2. Extremely pleasant article, I appreciated perusing your post, exceptionally decent share, I need to twit this to my adherents. Much appreciated!.  英文補習

  3. I am always searching online for articles that can help me. There is obviously a lot to know about this. I think you made some good points in Features also. Keep working, great job !tabonitobrasil

  4. whoah this weblog is excellent i love reading your articles. Stay up the good paintings! You already know, lots of persons are looking round for this info, you can aid them greatly. 防脫髮洗頭水

  5. The journey from Pune to Manali is made effortlessly convenient by the availability of the Pune to Manali tour package. These packages bridge the distance, offering a well-planned and hassle-free passage from the urban cityscape of Pune to the serene beauty of Manali’s mountains. A Manali tour package from Pune promises a journey filled with captivating moments you’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand through the charming streets of Old Manali or gazing at the snow-clad peaks, each experience becomes a part of your memory tapestry.

  6. Such an enlightening website. An obligation of appreciation is all together for sharing. Furniture is a thing that we in general need in our home or workplace. In case you thinking about obtaining new goods, by then I propose you buy victorian decorations. Since it’s altogether pleasing and the arrangement is so impeccable. linkmslot88 m88 mansion

  7. AI 126 optimizes financial systems, streamlining fraud detection, risk assessment, algorithmic trading, and customer interactions. AI 126

  8. Consequently every instant a mysterious unknown phone number bothers character otherwise possibly both of your loved ones, further merely attempt that stumble on the cellular phone call essentials and the backing of a overturn cellphone lookup service. 防脫髮洗頭水

  9. Incredible post! I am really preparing to over this data, is extremely useful my companion. Additionally incredible blog here with the majority of the significant data you have. Keep doing awesome doing here. 英文補習

  10. A formidable share, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a bit of evaluation on this. And he actually bought me breakfast as a result of I found it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the treat! However yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I really feel strongly about it and love studying extra on this topic. If doable, as you develop into experience, would you thoughts updating your blog with more particulars? It is highly helpful for me. Huge thumb up for this weblog publish! Demolition Middlesex

  11. I just right now wished to let you know about how exactly significantly I actually value all things you have discussed to help enhance life of individuals on this material. Using your articles, I have long gone by means of merely a beginner to a professional in your community. It is really a homage for your initiatives. Thank you House Demolition

  12. New terms and concepts often reflect emerging trends and ideas in the digital world. If “(candu123)” is indeed a term gaining recognition, candu123
    candu123 it might be indicative of shifts in digital culture, technological advancements, or changes in user behavior. Analyzing the context and associations of the term could provide insights into the current state and potential future directions of the online world.

  13. In some cases, new terms are coined within specific industries and then spread to wider audiences. If “(candu123)” is associated with a candu123 particular sector, such as technology, finance, healthcare, or entertainment, it might signal innovations or trends in that industry. Keeping an eye on its usage within industry-related discussions could provide valuable insights into potential disruptions or advancements.

  14. Given the lack of information available up to September 2021, further research and exploration are crucial to uncover candu123
    the true meaning candu123 and significance of “(candu123).” Online searches, engagement with relevant communities, and tracking discussions could provide valuable clues about its origin, development, and implications.

  15. Substantially, the post is actually the greatest on this worthw hile topic. I harmonise with your conclusions and also will thirstily look forward to your coming updates. Simply just saying thanks will certainly not simply be adequate, for the extraordinary lucidity in your writing. I can right away grab your rss feed to stay abreast of any kind of updates. Fabulous work and also much success in your business enterprize! 女士 脫髮 維他命

  16. AI is effective at resolving complicated dilemmas, often regarding huge quantities of understanding or hard variables. It could analyze patterns, create forecasts, and build insights. top ai

  17. AI 126 stands as a symbol of cutting-edge artificial intelligence, representing a convergence of innovation, problem-solving, and limitless potential. In the realm of AI, the numerical significance of 126 underscores the continuous evolution of technology. This exploration into AI 126 delves into its transformative impact across various domains, the principles that drive its capabilities, and the profound ways it shapes our present and future. What is AI 126?

  18. AI might process data and produce educated conclusions predicated on the analysis. It may contemplate professionals and negatives, examine possibilities, and pick the very best period of action. ai news

  19. I was surfing net and fortunately came across this site and found very interesting stuff here. Its really fun to read. I enjoyed a lot. Thanks for sharing this wonderful information. 補習社

  20. Atap Bitumen

    Atapnad Roofing Adalah jasa pemasangan rangka atap baja ringan, genteng aspal bitumen, plafon gypsum, PVC, lantai kayu dan lainnya. Menerima juga renovasi atap, plafon dan sebagainya. Berada di Jakarta untuk pemasangan wilayah Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi dll.

  21. Agen slot gacor gampang maxwin Panen77 merupakan situs judi slot gacor terbaru tahun ini dan kini telah menjadi kebanggaan untuk para pecinta slot dunia. Panen77 menyediakan beragam game judi slot online menarik dan mudah di akses hingga ke seluruh penjuru Nusantara.

  22. Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything such as this prior to. So nice to uncover somebody with many original ideas on this subject. realy thanks for starting this up. this fabulous website can be something that is required on the internet, somebody with a little originality. valuable problem for bringing something totally new on the web! 女士 脫髮 維他命

  23. I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article. I am hoping the same best work from you in the future as well. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to start my own BlogEngine blog now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings rapidly. Your write up is a fine example of it. 補習社

  24. I have learned some points through your website post. One other stuff I would like to state is that there are plenty of games out there designed particularly for toddler age little ones. They include things like pattern identification, colors, dogs, and patterns. These often focus on familiarization in lieu of memorization. This keeps little kids engaged without sensing like they are studying. Thanks 텍사스홀덤

  25. Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything in this way just before. So nice to uncover somebody by original ideas on this subject. realy thank you for beginning this up. this site are some things that is required on-line, someone after some originality. useful problem for bringing a new challenge to the web! 女士 脫髮 維他命

  26. There are some interesting points in time in this article but I do not determine if I see every one of them center to heart. You can find some validity but I will take hold opinion until I investigate it further. Excellent write-up , thanks and now we want far more! Added to FeedBurner in addition 텍사스홀덤

  27. I recently noticed your website back i are generally looking through which on a daily basis. You’ve got a loads of information at this site so i actually like your look to the web a tad too. Maintain the best show results! 補習社

  28. An intriguing discussion might be priced at comment. I think that you need to write regarding this topic, it might not become a taboo subject but normally individuals are insufficient to speak on such topics. An additional. Cheers 女士 脫髮 維他命

  29. Do you write more? It merely required a few moments to see your entry and so have an awareness that I know most people miss out on. Getting more people to join the discussion is usually a great thing. 女士 脫髮 維他命

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *