Intermodal road-rail transport business models in Sweden and Germany – A comparison of an intermodal transport company in the two markets

Abstract: The thesis investigated how the intermodal rail-road transport business model is influenced by external factors in two countries. For the analysis TX Logistik was chosen as an illustrative case and its business models in Germany and Sweden were examined. The competition with intermodal companies and trucking, policy and society, infrastructure and innovation, and demand were taken into account as external factors. After conduction of two interviews with TX Logistik representatives from Sweden and Germany, the description and analysis of TX Logistik business model in these two countries were made, according to Osterwalder’s business model’s canvas. It was identified that the company uses a subcontractor business model. The comparison of the German and Swedish intermodal transport markets in terms of the mentioned external factors was also done. Finally, the business models’ adaptations in the German and Swedish markets were analyzed. It was found out that the policy, demand and intramodal competition influenced the strategy and, consequently, the business models, significantly. However, there are some areas for improvement. The company should establish partnerships with other institutions in order to achieve promising innovations for the reduction of transport time. This would improve the value proposition and strengthen a competitive position against all-road transport. The governments, on other hand, should review their policy regarding regulation, certification and also fees for the usage of infrastructure.