Train operating companies
Information about the companies that serve our rail network
Train operating companies (TOCs) run passenger services, leasing and managing stations from Network Rail.
This is different from our role as the managers of the rail infrastructure.
TOCs are the consumer face of the rail industry, and generally apply for franchises to run specific routes from the Department for Transport.
Network Rail’s local routes and train companies work closely together to run the railways. Our targets and priorities are now agreed jointly with train operators, meaning performance incentives for all of Network Rail’s staff are directly aligned to the needs of customers.
On the National Rail website you can find the latest passenger information, including:
- stations and route maps
- company and information
- support and information
- on-board facilities
- ticketing and fares
- engineering works.