FERRMED conference “How to Solve the Stagnant Rail Freight Share in the EU: +FIRRST is the Solution” took place in Brussels on the 13th of November. During the conference, ESC pointed out that “Europe’s road transport sector is under growing pressure. Rising energy costs, road-charging schemes, driver shortages, and congested, ageing infrastructure all point to one conclusion: shippers need smarter, more resilient transport options.”
Co-modality should be the obvious solution—yet many shippers still find multimodal transport too complex, too slow, or too unpredictable. As a result, the share of rail and barge continues to stagnate. This is where the +FIRRST concept offers a breakthrough.
Developed by industry experts and supported by ESC, UIRR, IRU, and multiple stakeholders, +FIRRST aims to make combined transport faster, more flexible, and more attractive for businesses. FERRMED’s research shows that upgrading terminals and enabling agile “drive-through” operations could eliminate key bottlenecks and open the door to new logistics solutions. The concept envisions trains that can pick up single containers or trailers with far greater efficiency—simple in appearance, but powered by smart planning and innovation.
ESC is now working with partners to move +FIRRST from paper to practice through an EU-funded proof-of-concept. A first demonstrator on a major corridor—such as Rotterdam/Antwerp–Barcelona—could unlock significant benefits for European shippers. The next year will be crucial. ESC is actively identifying shippers interested in pioneering this new approach and helping build the momentum needed to bring +FIRRST to life.
A more reliable, resilient, and sustainable supply chain is within reach. With +FIRRST, co-modality can finally become the industry’s first choice.