Japanese company to buy stake in Greater Anglia

Abellio UK is selling 40% of its Greater Anglia rail franchise to Mitsui & Co Ltd.

This is the first time a Japanese company has become a shareholder in a UK train operating company. The deal is subject to final regulatory approvals, and meets Abellio’s long-standing objective of finding a suitable partner to run GA in a 60:40 joint venture.

Abellio and Mitsui worked together in a joint venture to bid for the West Midlands franchise last year, along with East Japan Railway Company.

“We are delighted to have reached agreement with Mitsui,” said Abellio Managing Director Dominic Booth.

“With the introduction of Mitsui’s knowledge and experience, we look forward to delivering significant improvements for Greater Anglia’s customers, including through the introduction of a brand new fleet.”