Factors affecting the intermodal transport development in the Greater Poland region. In search for an optimal public policy

Michał Beim , Bartosz Mazur , Andrzej Soczówka , Robert Zajdler

Abstract

Intermodal transport in Poland plays an increasingly important role. It develops despite difficulties it encounters. This article presents results on research conducted on development of intermodal transport in Greater Poland region, where the majority of intermodal terminals in Poland operate. The majority of intermodal terminals would not be open without financial support from the European Union because it is seen as a risky business. The risk is not only derived from infrastructural barriers or low-cost advantage over the road transport, but also because of low awareness of the environmental issues among customers of transport services. As a result, small and medium-sized road haulers dominate the Polish market. Poland has the largest fleet of road freight vehicles in the EU. Only entrepreneurs implementing the corporate social responsibility policy deliberately choose intermodal transport. One can identified four basic business models of intermodal terminals in Greater Poland region. While all business models form part of the logistics market, it is important to develop regional and transport policy of the State in this regard, supporting particular model(s) of intermodal terminals’ development. In the same time, helping to better focus the European Union funds.