Stadler Austria has signed a letter of intent with AGRANA regarding the lease of parts of the former sugar factory premises in Leopoldsdorf, located in the Marchfeld region of Lower Austria. This follows AGRANA's announcement in March 2025 to discontinue sugar production at this Austrian site.
As an initial step, Stadler plans to relocate its type testing activities for ÖBB double-deck trains and other projects from Zwentendorf to Leopoldsdorf. This includes static and dynamic type testing of rolling stock in line with current vehicle approvals and contractual deliveries in Austria.
Longer-term, the site is under consideration for a dedicated maintenance base to support Stadler’s Austrian customers. According to the letter of intent, both parties are evaluating a leasing agreement with a proposed term exceeding 30 years. Soil assessment and preparatory works for the first stage are expected to start shortly.
The potential redevelopment of the site also includes proposals for a European rail vehicle testing and development centre. The background to this is the limited availability of test infrastructure for rolling stock in Europe, which has created capacity constraints for manufacturers and operators alike.
AGRANA plans to retain part of the Leopoldsdorf location for logistics purposes. The site’s existing railway access and industrial facilities are viewed as beneficial for rolling stock servicing, testing, and related operations.
Negotiations on the detailed lease structure, technical implementation, and possible job transfers from AGRANA to Stadler are ongoing. The initiative is supported by regional stakeholders, including the government of Lower Austria and the ecoplus business agency.
