Through this joint procurement, the two transit companies are continuing their proven cooperation within the Mainz-Wiesbaden Transport Association (VMW) and modernizing their ticketing infrastructure. The ticket machines currently in use date back to 2011 and were jointly procured at that time. Given increased demands for user convenience, technology, and accessibility, a comprehensive upgrade is now necessary.

As part of the project, Almex is providing an integrated end-to-end solution for two transit companies, featuring fare products from the Rhine-Main Transport Association, the Rhine-Nahe Local Transport Association, and the Mainz-Wiesbaden Transport Association. In addition to the hardware, this also includes hosting and operating the software, ensuring reliable and future-proof operation.

The new machines feature a modern, intuitive user interface designed to meet the expectations of modern digital applications and significantly simplify the ticket-purchasing process. Large 32-inch displays ensure clear visuals and user-friendly navigation. Passengers can purchase their tickets both cashless—including contactless payment—and, as before, with cash. All existing functions of the current machines remain fully intact.

A special focus is placed on the consistent implementation of current accessibility requirements. The new machines comply with the provisions of the Accessibility Enhancement Act and, through ergonomic design, intuitive menu navigation, and assistive features such as voice output and tactile elements, provide the most accessible experience possible for all passengers. ESWE Verkehr and MVG are thus among the first transit companies to consistently implement the requirements of the Accessibility Enhancement Act.

Marion Hebding, Managing Director of ESWE Verkehr, says: “With the procurement of our new ticket machines, we are creating a modern, user-friendly, and consistently accessible service in terms of accessibility, well distributed throughout the city and thus close to the people. A total of 60 machines will be installed in Wiesbaden, with five existing locations being removed and five new ones added, thereby sensibly optimizing the distribution network.”

Florian Wiesemann, Managing Director of Mainzer Mobilität, says: “By investing in a new generation of ticket machines, we are ensuring a comprehensive, low-barrier sales structure for the future. The new machines make it easier for occasional customers in particular to access our services and play an important role in further reducing ticket sales on board vehicles, thereby improving punctuality and operational stability. The joint procurement with Wiesbaden also demonstrates how cooperation in public transit can be efficiently implemented and create synergies.”

Torsten Seipelt, Head of Sales at Almex, says: “With this contract, we are strengthening our position as a provider of integrated ticketing and sales solutions for public transit. In particular, the implementation for two transit companies with different fare structures demonstrates the flexibility and performance of our systems. Our goal is to provide passengers with a consistently intuitive and barrier-free user experience.”