As the SNCF's new low-cost service, Ouigo, prepares to hit the rails in the first half of 2013, the rail company has announced a fare increase on its TGV, Intercités and TER networks. The increase in fares, effective from 24 January, averages 2.3%. It should enable the SNCF to invest in improving the network, equipment and infrastructure in general: "The SNCF will adjust its fares for 2013 (excluding Ile-de-France) on Tuesday 24 January and is embarking on an unprecedented €2.6 billion investment programme approved by the Board of Directors on 20 December 2012, designed to improve and develop services for passengers", says the railway company in a press release.
