BUSSNANG, Switzerland — Rail equipment manufacturer Stadler will make its Stadler US operation a separate North American division as of Jan. 1, 2025, the company has announced. Current Stadler US CEO Martin Ritter will lead the division and become a member of the company’s management board.
“We are now strengthening the location to underscore the importance of this market,” Peter Sphuler, Stadler board chairman, said in a press release. “Martin Ritter is an experienced leader with a proven track record, and he will head the new North America division. I wish him and the whole team every success.”
Stadler established its U.S. operation in Salt Lake City in 2016 after Texas’ Trinity Metro ordered eight diesel-electric FLIRT (Fast Light Intercity and Regional Train) trainsets for its TEXRail commuter service, to comply with federal Buy America provisions. The company now employs more than 500 people in the U.S., and began an expansion of its Salt Lake City plant in October.
“I am delighted to have been asked to run Stadler US as a division in its own right,” Ritter said. “The decision to make the U.S. a separate entity demonstrates the importance of this location for the entire Stadler Group. It is down to the tremendous commitment of all the employees here in Salt Lake City, and I would like to thank everyone for their dedication. I look forward to taking on the new challenges and continuing to grow the north American market.”
Interesting photo of the plant and the truck docks. Rail served???
Yes. The yard is to the left of this building.
The plant is serviced by the SLGW, the Salt Lake, Garfield & Western, sometimes called the “Saltair Route”. Trainspotters have seen FLIRT’s out on these rails during trial runs.
Thanks, John. Appreciate the info and insight.
Could this be a move to be ready for an Amtrak order if it comes?
Stadler has even produced new full-length dome coach/diners for the ROCKY MOUNTAINEER–equipment that meets all US crash safety requirements.
Wouldn’t it be nice to see NYS DOT buy a pair of Stadler regional DMUs operating between Rensselaer and Montreal with a cross platform transfer… instead of the Amjunk that will be around 2032 in Empire Service.
Back when the “big three” (Siemens, Bombardier, Alstom) were playing with consolidation possibilities one of my senior managers noted, “Don’t overlook Stadler.” They do make some impressive stuff and it’s adaptation to the North American market is even more impressive.