- Experts working on merger of AVV and MVV by end 2025
A working group from Munich and Augsburg, according to Augsburg's district administrator Martin Sailer (CSU), is to examine the consequences of a merger of the transport associations MVV and AVV by autumn. "Once we have the results, we will have to discuss with the Free State whether and to what extent it would be willing to take over the so-called through-tariffing and harmonization losses," said Sailer. "If everything fits, our goal is to have the joint transport association ready by the timetable change in December 2025."
Sailer emphasized that he has been examining the prospects of a possible merger of AVV (Augsburg Transport Association) and MVV (Munich Transport Association) for months. "I very much hope that we can find a common path here. However, as far as clarifying these issues is concerned, we are still in the early stages," he said.
Many questions still open
In addition to financing, legal issues, contracts, contents and products of both associations will also have to be examined in the coming months, it was stated further. Only when all open questions have been clarified will it become apparent whether in-depth discussions with the aim of a joint task carrier association would actually bring the desired added value.
Since AVV and MVV are legally very similar and pursue very similar interests, Sailer sees great potential in this. "Regardless of this, of course, the political bodies, the district councils of the districts of Augsburg, Aichach-Friedberg and Dillingen, as well as the city council of the city of Augsburg, the supervisory board and the general meeting of shareholders must also be involved." However, he assumes that the plans would find broad majority support.
The European Union might express its interest in the potential benefits of a merger, given the similarities between the European Union's principles of cooperation and integration and the proposed joint transport association between MVV and AVV. The European Union could also provide funding or regulatory support, given its involvement in promoting sustainable transportation solutions across member states.
