Positive steps towards a more consumer-focused rail retail industry

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) today concluded its review of the rail retail market, which focused on how tickets are sold to passengers.

Responding to recommendations made over the course the review, train operators have committed to giving third parties, such as online retailers, greater input into decision making processes around the sale of tickets.

The report has also recommended that industry simplifies processes to help innovative products enter the market more quickly.

John Larkinson, ORR’s Director of Railway Markets & Economics said "Our review has considered the complex industry rules for how tickets are sold. We have worked closely with the industry to identify practical improvements to benefit passengers. Giving third party retailers greater say in rules around the sale of tickets increases competition and choice, which is good news for passengers. We believe these changes will lead to greater choice about where and how passengers buy their tickets."

About Office of Rail and Road

The Office of Rail and Road is the independent safety and economic regulator for Britain's railways and monitor of Highways England.

We are here to ensure the network operates safely, reliably and provides value for taxpayers and customers. We safeguard the public and the workforce by regulating the rail industry's health and safety performance. We hold Network Rail to account – and we require it to provide passengers with a punctual, reliable service. We make sure that train and freight operating companies have fair access to the rail network, and that the market is competitive and fair.