The Alpha Trains portfolio includes around 370 locomotives and 300 passenger trains, which are leased to public and private operators in about a dozen countries across continental Europe.

The portfolio is currently managed by an international staff of around 70 people from offices in Antwerp, Cologne and Luxembourg. 

AMP Capital has been invested in Alpha Trains since 2008, when as part of a consortium it acquired the company from Royal Bank of Scotland.

AMP Capital head of infrastructure for Europe and the Americas Boe Pahari said rail transportation is an important sector for AMP Capital in Europe because of its growth potential. 

“During the past 12 months, we have witnessed increasing market activity in the European train leasing market, making AMP Capital an early mover in this attractive investment sector,” said Mr Pahari. 

"As the European Union supports increasing competition within the industry, we expect to see further opportunities opening up for private train operators and train leasing companies.”

Mr Pahari said he was pleased to be able to increase its stake, given that AMP Capital already knows the asset very well and regards it as an excellent business opportunity. 

“This deal is in line with our investment strategy, which includes investing in high-quality assets within our infrastructure business in order to ensure sustainable and long-term value for our investors,” said Mr Pahari.