News

• Senior rail freight industry figures came together yesterday at a Rail Partners summit to discuss where rail freight growth will come from in the next few years and to break down barriers to investment. 

• Rail freight makes a significant contribution to the economy, supporting growth in sectors from Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) to construction, and adding £2.45bn in economic value to UK plc every year. Growing rail freight is an opportunity to support wider economic growth – a key mission of the government. 

• In a challenging business environment, freight companies want to work with the Department for Transport and Scottish government, the regulator and infrastructure manager to identify ways to bolster business confidence – helping freight companies to invest in newer and greener services. 

Rail Partners chief executive, Andy Bagnall, said:

• Rail Partners has launched Kit for Kyiv, a campaign to fund body armour and helmets for Ukrainian rail workers travelling to the frontline.
• So far, British rail companies have provided donations to protect over 2,500 rail workers.
• Every £20 donation will ensure one Ukrainian rail worker can be fitted with an armoured personal protective vest and helmet.

• Following its success last year, Rail Partners hosted the conference at the annual Rolling Stock Networking event in Derby.
• The conference addressed two important themes: how innovation can deliver higher performing and more cost-effective rolling stock and how depots can support a high performing railway and create great places to work.
• Attendees heard from leading industry speakers from companies including Greater Anglia, Angel Trains, the Global Centre for Rail Excellence and Stadler.