rail

UP Executive Defends Merger Competition Record, Points to CPKC Precedent

Union Pacific's marketing chief Kenny Rocker said the railroad's proposed merger with Norfolk Southern will not reduce competition, citing the Surface Transportation Board's approval of the Canadian Pacific-Kansas City Southern deal as proof the market can absorb major rail combinations.

Rocker noted that after the CPKC merger created a cross-border single-line network linking Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, Union Pacific responded by expanding capacity at Eagle Pass and launching international crews with Grupo México in 2025. The carrier increased gateway volume with Mexico by over 5% since 2023.

The executive acknowledged losing Schneider National's Mexico business to CPKC but said the competition prompted Union Pacific to adjust pricing and deliver enhanced value. A combined UP-NS network would eliminate interchanges currently adding 24 to 48 hours to shipments.