Spanish national train operator RENFE has signed up PressReader to provide an "all-you-can-read" online content service. The deal will see RENFE’s passengers gain access to the Canadian company’s extensive platform of digital newspapers and magazines.
PressReader is keen to point out that its raft of titles will be available to train passengers in Spain before departure as well as on board. The service will be built into RENFE’s existing on-train passenger offering – PlayRENFE and will also be made available to all ticket purchasers via a text message with an access link.
The contract with RENFE marks a further expansion in Spain for PressReader which has already signed partnership deals with Spanish national airline Iberia, the Paradores hotel chain and ferry operators Baleària and Trasmapi.
For its part, RENFE has invested heavily in its on-train WiFi services – chiefly covering its AVE high-speed train fleet. It is in the midst of a ten-year contract with Telefonica (Movistar) to supply WiFi along its main lines. The deal, which will end in 2028 is reportedly worth some €148.6 million.
Telefonica has installed 540 LTE aerials in a bid to boost coverage along 1,600km of high speed tracks in Spain. The network uses a combination of dedicated 800MHz and 1,800MHz equipment as well as satellite coverage, provided by Hispasat, in some areas.
PressReader, which says it provides access to thousands of titles from more than 120 countries in over 70 languages, has also signed deals with train operators VIA Rail in Canada and SBB in Switzerland, where it is working with Nomad Digital to make the content available via the onboard entertainment portal.
The Company works with the publishers of some of the world’s best-known newspapers, magazines and educational publications and collaborates with international business partners from 150 countries.
The growing market for passenger WiFi and on-board entertainment and trackside wireless systems will be the main subjects of BWCS’ WiFi on Trains Conference this year www.Traincomms.com .
For information on the full programme and the one remaining sponsorship spot at the 2023 event, please contact Ross.Parsons@BWCS.com
The 2023 Conference is sponsored by Huber+Suhner, GlobalReach Technology, Westermo, Xentrans and Icomera.