Stadler could not meet its planned targets for 2024 because of severe natural disasters in Europe. These events caused significant disruptions to production and logistics, forcing adjustments to future schedules. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Stadler
Photo: Stadler

Stadler’s Valencia Operations Halted by Flooding

In October 2024, massive floods severely disrupted operations at Stadler’s plant in Valencia, Spain. While none of the 3,000 employees lost their lives, 400 workers remain unable to reach the facility.

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Additionally, warehouses located outside the plant suffered extensive damage due to flooding. More than 30 suppliers experienced similar losses, which forced the company to postpone project deliveries to 2025.

How Natural Disasters Impacted Stadler’s Finances?

In Switzerland, a flood destroyed 800 tons of aluminum panels needed for Stadler’s train production. The supplier, Constellium, managed to partially resume operations only by October 2024, with delays lasting into August 2025.

Similarly, severe rain caused a dam break in Austria, flooding Stadler’s Dürrnrohr site. Ten KISS trains, including a ready-to-deliver unit for Austrian Railways, were damaged, compounding production losses.

Berlin Metro Train Deliveries Face Significant Delays

Stadler encountered difficulties fulfilling its contract to supply metro trains for Berlin due to various factors. The pandemic, supply chain interruptions, and technical issues with onboard software all contributed to the delays.

Signed in 2020, the contract covers 1,500 train cars, but only 377 have been ordered so far. This shortfall left the Pankow facility underutilized, adding further strain to the company’s financial situation.

Stadler’s Financial Losses and Future Prospects

Stadler now predicts its operating margin will drop from 5% to 3%, while sales will decline. Revenues are expected to fall to CHF 3 billion instead of the planned CHF 3.5–3.7 billion.

Despite these setbacks, the company maintains a record order backlog of CHF 25.8 billion, offering hope for recovery. However, the completion of some orders has been deferred to 2025 and beyond.

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