Belgian private operator Lineas joined forces with the Italian state-owned rail freight branch FS Logistix to create Modalink. The new entity will manage the Antwerp Main Hub and operate the feeder intermodal services from and to the different quays in the port of Antwerp.
Lineas will remain majority shareholder in Modalink. Currently, the company is split 70%-30% between the Belgian company and FS Logistix, which replaced the Mercitalia Group. In the future, the quota of the Italian company can be increased to a maximum of 49%. The Antwerp Main Hub, also known as Lineas Main Hub, is one of the main facilities at Europe’s second port.
Covering an area of 200,000 square metres, the terminal is equipped with eight tracks of 700 metres in length and can move around 200,000 containers every year. “In addition to the launch of Modalink, Lineas and FS Logistix are cooperating to enhance services on the Antwerp-Milan line”, the Belgian company highlighted.
Lineas looking for liquidity
Up until now, Lineas was the sole manager of the Antwerp Main Hub. However, the company is in some financial troubles and has been looking for cash for quite some time after nearing bankruptcy. “This transaction is the final step of Lineas to refocus on traction services and stop the Intermodal Operator activity”, the company added. With some help from private investors and, above all, a stronger state presence in the company, Lineas seems to be on the right track.