State-owned Renfe Mercancías selected Medlog, a subsidiary of MSC, to partner in the creation of this equally owned joint venture dedicated to container transport within the Iberian Peninsula. The selection process involved thirty candidates, and the agreement includes the transfer of assets, rolling stock, and personnel to the new entity. Renfe Mercancías employees will have the option to join the new company, remain within the public organisation, or retain the right to transition at a later stage.
A significant milestone was achieved in December 2024 with the signing of the preliminary agreement. Renfe Mercancías aims to evolve into an integrated logistics operator by expanding rail transport services to and from ports as well as international routes. The new company will leverage Renfe Mercancías’ railway assets alongside MSC’s logistical and multimodal expertise. In addition to container transport, the joint venture will handle steel products and other cargo categories. Renfe Mercancías will continue to manage military transport, gas shipments, and automotive transport within Spain.
Unofficial sources estimate the value of the agreement at approximately €200 million, with no job losses anticipated. However, integrating the two companies poses challenges related to procedures and corporate cultures. The venture will also face stiff competition from private operators, including DB Cargo and Transfesa Logistics.
