České Dráhy Enhances Passenger Experience with New Dining Options and Digital Ordering
České Dráhy (ČD), the Czech national train operator, is enhancing its passenger experience with updated onboard dining services and the introduction of digital ordering capabilities. These improvements aim to attract more passengers by offering not just efficient and comfortable transport, but as well appealing onboard amenities.
New Menu Options Across ČD Services
ČD is introducing a refreshed menu across its train services, including both long-distance and regional lines. The new offerings include a variety of dishes designed to cater to different tastes. Passengers can now enjoy options such as chopped veal cutlet with cheddar, bacon sauce, sweet potato puree, and beans, alongside a vegetarian alternative of Italian pasta orecchiette with vegetable ragout. Dessert options include cake with whipped cream, and soups like lentil soup with sausage and carrots are also available. The menu will be available until mid-July.
Partnership with Coca-Cola Hellenic for Beverage Selection
In addition to the food menu updates, ČD is partnering with Coca-Cola Hellenic to revamp its beverage offerings. This collaboration will see the replacement of existing non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks with new products, including Italian primitivo and pinot wines. This change aims to provide passengers with a wider and more appealing selection of beverages during their journey.
Digital Ordering on the Rise
Following the trend of digital convenience, both České Dráhy and its competitors, Leo Express and RegioJet, are investing in mobile app ordering systems. Leo Express already offers a menu that changes quarterly, currently featuring sandwiches, baguettes, and Japanese onigiri, driven by the growing popularity of Asian cuisine. Passengers on Leo Express trains made half a million orders last year, and the carrier plans to launch mobile app ordering this year. RegioJet, which sold over a million crumb cakes and 350,000 liters of coffee (primarily cappuccinos) last year, plans to introduce a seasonal menu in April and already offers mobile ordering.
ČD’s Fleet Modernization and Passenger Numbers
These service enhancements approach as ČD continues its extensive fleet modernization program. In 2024, the Group earned 1.3 billion CZK in profit, with České dráhy itself posting a profit exceeding 2 billion CZK. The operator attracted 168.8 million passengers, an increase of 4.4 million compared to the previous year. Investments totaling 18 billion CZK were made in over 140 new vehicles, including RegioPanter and RegioFox regional trains, and ComfortJet long-distance trains.
Leadership at České Dráhy
Michal Krapinec, Chairman of the Board and CEO of České dráhy, has been instrumental in driving these improvements. He assumed the role in April 2022, having previously served as Chairman of the Board of ČD – Telematika from 2021 to 2022. Michal Krapinec was born on May 20, 1986, and holds a law degree from Charles University in Prague.
These ongoing investments and service improvements demonstrate ČD’s commitment to providing a modern and attractive rail travel experience for passengers in the Czech Republic.