Arriva-RTS UK Rail Deal: Infrastructure Growth & Expansion Strategy

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Introduction

Arriva Group acquired RTS Infrastructure, based in Leeds, to enhance its UK rail services, expanding its train maintenance operations and entering the UK rail infrastructure construction sector. The deal, announced on October 10, 2025, involves an undisclosed amount and includes RTS Infrastructure’s existing contracts and a lease for a rail maintenance facility near Leeds Station.

Acquisition Details

Arriva Group, a European passenger transport provider, is expanding its UK rail portfolio with the acquisition of RTS Infrastructure. The acquisition’s financial details remain undisclosed. The agreement encompasses RTS Infrastructure’s current maintenance, design, and build contracts.

Operational Integration

Arriva will integrate the acquired rail maintenance facility near Leeds Station into its national depot network. This integration aims to increase the overnight servicing capacity for rail vehicles. RTS Infrastructure provides rail depot services and undertakes infrastructure projects, including platform upgrades and track modifications across the UK. The company supports various rail sector clients, such as Network Rail, train operating companies (TOCs), and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Strategic Implications

The acquisition allows Arriva to introduce new service offerings, supported by RTS Infrastructure’s Network Rail Principal Contractor Licence. Arriva aims to broaden its service provision and diversify revenue streams within its UK Trains division. All roles for RTS Infrastructure employees and customer contracts will remain unchanged following the transition. The acquisition aligns with Arriva’s European growth strategy, which has recently involved investments in fleet, infrastructure, and digital technologies.

Executive Statements

Chris Reid, RTS Infrastructure’s managing director, noted that the acquisition will enable the expansion and enhancement of services. Paul Hutchings, Arriva Rail Services managing director, highlighted the acquisition’s potential to provide design and construction services and better serve new and existing clients. In July, Arriva announced a €300m ($349.3m) contract with Škoda for electric multiple units in Czechia.

Conclusion

Arriva Group’s acquisition of RTS Infrastructure will expand its train maintenance operations and enter the UK rail infrastructure construction sector. The deal includes existing contracts, a rail maintenance facility lease, and aims to broaden service provision within the UK Trains division. The move aligns with Arriva’s European growth strategy.