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

 

206,559 thoughts on “Railway Industry in France

  1. Ponořte se do světa vzrušujících sportovních událostí s Mostbet – přední platformou pro online sázení. Zde najdete nejširší výběr soutěží ve fotbale, tenisu, basketbalu a mnoha dalších sportech. Díky bezchybné práci a intuitivnímu rozhraní je Mostbet zaslouženě považován za jednoho z lídrů v oblasti online sázení. Připojte se k vzrušující hře právě teď na https://heatplanutilities.co.uk/contact-us/ a získejte výhodný uvítací bonus, který vám umožní začít s výhodou. Objevte vzrušující svět sázení s Mostbet!

  2. Wow! This can be one particular of the most useful blogs We have ever arrive across on this subject. Actually Great. I’m also an expert in this topic so I can understand your hard work.

  3. Wow! This can be one particular of the most useful blogs We have ever arrive across on this subject. Actually Great. I’m also an expert in this topic so I can understand your hard work. 먹튀검증

  4. Wow, cool post. I’d like to write like this too – taking time and real hard work to make a great article… but I put things off too much and never seem to get started. Thanks though. Rafting Bogor

  5. I have been reading out many of your articles and i must say pretty good stuff. I will surely bookmark your site MMA

  6. If you’re seeking personal growth and transformation in Dubai, Impact Life Coach in Dubai with NLP offers a unique and powerful approach. Their expertise in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) can help you unlock your full potential and overcome challenges with tailored strategies. Whether you’re aiming to boost your career, enhance personal relationships, or achieve your goals, their professional guidance can provide the clarity and direction you need. It’s worth exploring how their services can make a significant impact on your journey toward a more fulfilling life.

  7. If you’re seeking personal growth and transformation in Dubai, Impact Life Coach in Dubai with NLP offers a unique and powerful approach. Their expertise in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) can help you unlock your full potential and overcome challenges with tailored strategies. Whether you’re aiming to boost your career, enhance personal relationships, or achieve your goals, their professional guidance can provide the clarity and direction you need. It’s worth exploring how their services can make a significant impact on your journey toward a more fulfilling life..

  8. Love this post! Your insights into Railway Industry in France are very helpful. Looking forward to reading more from you.

    From Sherlyn from Conference

  9. Great! Your insights into France’s rail innovations and sustainability efforts are fascinating. The TGV’s impact on travel is truly impressive! One question for my baby names Chunni that 2 months old can travel.

  10. Discovering your blog was a breath of fresh air! As someone actively seeking reliable information on physiotherapy, I appreciate the valuable insights you’ve shared. Your comprehensive approach to discussing various aspects of physiotherapy has been truly enlightening. I’m currently exploring options for a physiotherapy clinic in HBR Layoutprovides exceptional care and attention. The therapists are highly skilled and knowledgeable, and they take the time to understand each patient’s individual needs. The clinic’s atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable, making it easy for patients to relax and focus on their recovery. I would highly recommend this clinic to anyone seeking physiotherapy treatment.

  11. how to seal copper jewelry, clean it to remove any dirt or oils. Apply a thin, even layer of clear lacquer or a specialized jewelry sealant. Allow it to dry completely, creating a protective barrier against tarnish and oxidation. Reapply the sealant periodically to maintain the jewelry’s shine and prevent discoloration.

  12. I’m ceaselessly flabbergasted by how much data accessible on this subject.What you introduced was well-informed and eloquent to get your stand on this across to every one of your perusers. crewlogout com

  13. Kyle Bobbitt LLC offers top-notch general contractor services in Chapel Hill NC. Specializing in residential and commercial projects, our team ensures quality craftsmanship, timely delivery, and customer satisfaction. From renovations to new constructions, trust Kyle Bobbitt LLC to bring your vision to life with precision and excellence. Contact us today for a consultation!

    Visit for more information: https://www.kylebobbitt.com/general-contractor/

  14. هل تبحث عن خدمات تنظيف منازل في الرياض تتميز بالجودة والدقة؟ نحن هنا لنقدم لك الحل الأمثل. شركة تنظيف منازل بالرياض مع شركة منزلي ماغ للخدمات المنزلية نضمن لك تنظيفًا شاملاً وعناية فائقة بمنزلك، حيث أن خدماتنا متنقلة وتصل إليك أينما كنت في الرياض.

  15. Great job for publishing such a beneficial web site. Your web log isn’t only useful but it is additionally really creative too. Tech ai

  16. This is my first time i visit here. I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion. From the tons of comments on your articles, I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here keep up the good work Tech ai

  17. It’s little things like these comments that often make me smile. They’re a reminder that we all have unique ways of seeing the world and sharing our thoughts. I think that’s what makes the internet so great; we can learn from each other and be inspired by each other’s experiences and perspectives. https://exarm-anime.com/

  18. There’s something so enjoyable about reading the comments here. Maybe it’s because everyone has a unique way of saying something. It feels like we’re in a big conversation, where every voice has something valuable to add. This is one of the things I enjoy about being in an online community. https://detaobao.com/

  19. Find top-rated Car Buyer & Dealers in Walpole MA who are committed to providing a seamless car buying or selling experience. Our dealers offer a wide selection of vehicles, while our buyers ensure you receive fair market value for your current car. Enjoy professional service and an efficient process with our trusted team.

  20. Commercial Roof Maintenance is essential for protecting your business property and extending the lifespan of your roof. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and routine upkeep prevent costly damage and maintain efficiency. By addressing issues like leaks, debris, and wear early, you safeguard your investment, ensure optimal performance, and avoid unexpected expenses, keeping your Commercial Roof Maintenance in Tucson, AZ are space secure and functional.

  21. You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be really something which I think I would never understand. It seems too complicated and very broad for me. I am looking forward for your next post, I will try to get the hang of it! Noleggio furgoni Roma

  22. Luna Azul Bridal offers uncommon custom bridal tailoring, guaranteeing each lady’s outfit is an ideal fit for her exceptional day. With careful meticulousness, Luna Azul Bridal specialties custom wedding dresses that celebrate individual style and tastefulness. Custom bridal tailoring

  23. Just want to say your article is as surprising. The clarity to your post is simply excellent and that i could suppose you’re knowledgeable in this subject. Well with your permission let me to clutch your RSS feed to keep updated with approaching post. Thank you one million and please continue the enjoyable work. Noleggio scale aeree Roma

  24. Maglaro ng Fun Bingo online at maranasan ang kilig ng bingo games mula sa kaginhawahan ng iyong tahanan. Sumali na ngayon at masiyahan sa mga kamangha-manghang bonus at premyo! Fun Bingo online

  25. Reading the comments here is like enjoying a collection of quotes from a diverse book. Everyone brings wisdom, humor, or just a unique perspective. Sometimes, one comment can brighten my day or give me a new perspective on something. https://178.128.103.166/

  26. Manajemen bankroll adalah kunci keberhasilan dalam permainan poker REALBET99. Tetapkan batas maksimal untuk jumlah uang yang akan Anda gunakan bermain dan jangan pernah melebihi batas tersebut. Disiplin dalam mengelola bankroll akan membantu Anda menghindari kerugian besar dan memastikan Anda tetap dapat bermain dalam jangka Panjang

Leave a Reply

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