EQT’s core infrastructure fund is acquiring the operator of Sweden’s flagship high-speed airport rail service, connecting Greater Stockholm with Arlanda Airport.
The EQT Active Core Infrastructure I fund is investing an unspecified amount to acquire A-Train from its current shareholders.
A-Train operates under a public-private partnership concession with the Swedish state, granting long-term rights to use the rail link between Stockholm and Arlanda Airport and operate the Arlanda express shuttle service until 2050.
EQT said its plans to support A-Train include supporting A-Train’s ongoing SEK3bn (€276bn) investment programme to introduce a new high-speed train fleet by around 2030.
Kunal Koya, partner of EQT Active Core Infrastructure, said: “A-Train is a strong fit for our active core infrastructure strategy that aims to support sustainable companies that provide essential services to the communities they serve.
“We see significant potential ahead, and EQT is committed to investing long-term in further enhancing A-Train’s service offering.”
Gebhard Littich, managing director of EQT Active Core Infrastructure, said: “We are proud to have secured this attractive long-term investment opportunity within the transport and logistics space.
“Drawing on EQT’s industrial expertise and heritage, we look forward to working together with A-Train’s management team and employees as a supportive long-term owner.”
Magnus Zetterberg, CEO of A-Train, said: “We are pleased to welcome EQT as A-Train’s new long-term owner as we embark on the next phase of our journey.
“Together with EQT, we look forward to continuing to improve the experience for the millions of customers who travel with Arlanda express every year, ensuring that we remain the most reliable link between Stockholm city and Arlanda airport.”
To read the latest IPE Real Assets magazine click here.
