55th IBS Congress in Wiesbaden: 30 Years of IBS – Shaping the Future of European Rail Freight Transport Together
On 8 and 9 October 2026, the 55th Congress of the International Rail Freight Business Association (IBS) e.V. took place at Museum Reinhard Ernst in Wiesbaden. Alongside current challenges and future prospects for European rail freight transport, this year’s event marked a very special occasion: the 30th anniversary of IBS. Over two days, the congress provided a platform for professional exchange, engaging discussions and networking among representatives of the European rail and logistics industry. In addition to a diverse conference programme, participants enjoyed a festive anniversary celebration and gained valuable insights into practical rail freight operations.
Current Challenges and New Perspectives in Rail Freight Transport
Following a welcome address by IBS Chairman Udo Sauerbrey, Dr Christian Langhagen-Rohrbach from the Hessian Ministry of Transport officially opened the conference programme with an introductory speech. The first session focused on the challenges and opportunities facing rail freight forwarders and rail freight operators. Particular attention was given to the impact of low water levels, infrastructure works and the resulting demands on transport chains. The panel discussion featured Julian Remie (Rail Innovators Holding B.V.), Henrik Würdemann (Captrain Deutschland GmbH) and Jürgen Albersmann (Contargo GmbH & Co. KG). Together, they explored current developments and challenges affecting efficient European freight transport. “All modes of transport are currently required to demonstrate a high degree of flexibility. As the most important mode of transport for ensuring the supply of raw materials and maintaining logistics along the Rhine during periods of low water levels, rail is helping to keep industry running through cooperation and by mobilising all available resources,” said Udo Sauerbrey, Chairman of the IBS Board.
Innovation, New Business Models and Sustainable Transport Solutions
The second session focused on innovative business and service developments in European rail freight transport. Olaf Krüger, member of the IBS Board, highlighted business opportunities, product developments and future markets in rail freight transport. Monika Huber from Rail Cargo Group then presented the potential of multimodal freight transport along European transport corridors, using a best-practice example from Italy. Tom Keymeulen from ID Logistics provided insights into innovative approaches to wagon management and their importance for modern logistics processes. Another key topic was the connection between the circular economy and rail freight transport. Abdul El Ghali and Artur Zorin from Interzero Material Supplies GmbH, together with Marco Passira from LOCON Logistik & Consulting AG, presented the current status of a pilot project focusing on waste management and ecological recycling in rail freight transport. The various presentations highlighted the importance of innovative solutions, sustainable concepts and close cooperation within the industry for the continued development of European rail freight transport.
30 Years of IBS – A Special Anniversary Celebration in Wiesbaden
One of the highlights of the congress was the celebration of IBS’s 30th anniversary on Thursday evening. In the unique setting of Museum Reinhard Ernst, members, partners and long-standing companions came together to reflect on three decades of the association’s work. Since its foundation, IBS has been committed to promoting exchange, cooperation and the development of international rail freight transport. The anniversary provided an opportunity to look back on shared achievements while also focusing on the future.
A particularly special moment of the evening was the appointment of Olaf Krüger as Honorary Chairman of IBS.
With this distinction, the association recognised his longstanding commitment and outstanding contributions to IBS. The appointment was a sign of appreciation and recognition for his dedication and close connection to the association.
Practical Insights at Frankenbach and DB Cargo
The second day of the congress focused on the practical aspects of rail freight transport. The programme began with a visit to the container terminal operated by Frankenbach Container Service GmbH in Mainz. Reinhard Oswald provided participants with insights into terminal operations and the importance of combined transport for efficient logistics chains. This was followed by a visit to DB Cargo in Mainz. Under the title “FLS Transa & DB Cargo – Networks, Capacities and Cooperation Models”, Claus Keller from DB Cargo AG presented networks, capacities and cooperation models. The visits offered valuable first-hand insights into operational processes and provided further opportunities for professional exchange. A joint lunch on Wiesbaden’s Neroberg and an interesting guided city tour, fortunately accompanied by dry weather, provided a pleasant conclusion to the second day of the congress.
Two Days of Exchange, New Insights and Memorable Encounters
The 55th IBS Congress brought together current industry topics, personal encounters and a special anniversary celebration. The presentations and discussions demonstrated that European rail freight transport faces a wide range of challenges while also offering numerous opportunities for innovation, new business models and sustainable transport solutions. Our sincere thanks go to all speakers, participants, members, partners and supporters who contributed to the success of the congress and anniversary celebration. We look back on two successful days in Wiesbaden and look forward to continuing to actively shape the future of European rail freight transport together with our members and partners.
