Interfleet Technology, Sponsor

This is Interfleet Technology’s twelfth consecutive year as a supporter of the Rail Business Awards; we are delighted to continue to sponsor the ‘best of the best’ Business of the Year category.

Interfleet is one of the leading advisers for rolling stock, infrastructure, railway systems and railway business management. Operating from 22 international offices on 4 continents, Interfleet has more than 600 experienced staff.

Interfleet continues to be active right across the UK rail industry. For example Interfleet’s UK specialists have recently been working with East Coast Trains to help the operator deliver a step-change in real-time performance monitoring. East Coast has adopted Interfleet’s ‘Guru’ system, which includes remote condition monitoring and energy metering, and can help deliver reductions in train maintenance costs and energy usage, increased rolling stock reliability, improved detection of infrastructure faults and enhanced overall operational efficiency.

Interfleet has also been developing new energy metering solutions for train operators, including London Midland, which will allow operators to pay for each train’s actual energy consumption whilst monitoring individual train usage at any point on the rail network. Interfleet’s support encompasses both the turnkey fitment of the energy metering equipment and the processing, reporting and analysis of the energy usage data using Interfleet’s energy management solution, Energyx, made available to users via the company’s extranet, clyx.net.

Interfleet also added a new strategic dimension to its expanding portfolio of services during 2011, with the launch of Interfleet Transport Advisory (ITA). ITA’s service offer is centred on three key areas of transport planning, transformation and transaction. Rufus Boyd, who established and leads ITA, comments: “ITA is a consultancy that can operationalise concepts and structures, and bridge the gap between the abstract and the practical. ITA offers a service which is designed specifically to sit between a high-end, financially-led management consultancy and the technical groups”.

Jonathan Wragg, Interfleet’s UK Regional Director, concludes: “We’re continuing to build the Interfleet brand and our service offering on several levels. As we mark our twelfth year of sponsorship, we're delighted to be able to celebrate our clients' business success through our continued support of the awards".

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SSP, Sponsor

For the tenth consecutive year, SSP UK is proud to sponsor the Train Operator of the Year Award at the Rail Business Awards 2011

SSP is the leading dedicated operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations, operating restaurants, bars, cafes, food courts, lounges and convenience stores in airports, train stations, motorway service stations, shopping malls, conference centres and other leisure locations. With a heritage stretching back over 60 years, today SSP has 30,000 employees, serving over a million customers every day. It has business at over 140 airports and over 250 rail stations, and operates more than 2,100 units in 30 countries around the world.

Tony Keating, SSP UK chief executive, said: “2011 has been yet another challenging year for all of us involved in the rail industry with high inflation and customers who are nervous on both the UK economy and their own employment prospects.  Despite all of this the industry has achieved significant year on year passenger growth which we both welcome and applaud.  This great achievement is in no small way due to the improving service quality and reliability that I see every day as I travel around the UK.  Great train companies are the foundation of this achievement and hence SSP are delighted to once again be sponsoring the Train Operator of the Year Award.

“2011 has been a very exciting year of firsts for SSP UK. We launched the first ever UK advertising campaign for our global brand, Upper Crust, using outdoor, radio and experiential activity with successful results. We also joined forces with the charity, Springboard, to tap into a younger base of potential recruits and launched the SSP UK apprenticeship programme. This Level 2 and Level 3 qualification in Food & Drink Service is designed to develop and grow existing skills of our colleagues and to help unleash their full potential, as a result we enjoyed the very first graduation ceremony in April.

“Earlier this year, we introduced a new Rainforest Alliance certified blend of coffee into the majority of our UK brands, following consumer feedback and five days of taste tests at units across the country.  The new blend, Belluno, was created exclusively for SSP UK, by our National Coffee Specialist, Graziano Moroni and went into 210 units nationwide. 

“We were delighted to win the Cafe Society Food Award for Caffé Ritazza’s Firecracker Chicken and Chorizo Panini Melt, and at this year’s Marketing Week Engage Awards we received the Instore award for our Burger King digital menus project. “We hope and believe that the Rail Business Awards play the same role in driving standards of excellence within the rail industry and inspire winning performance from everyone involved.”  

In terms of new openings, we have now opened our second BreadBox in London’s Victoria Station following the new brand’s success in Manchester Piccadilly. The iconic V&A bar at Marylebone station has undergone an extensive refurbishment also. As it is within a listed building and it was vital that the restoration was done in keeping with its surroundings without losing its historic charm. We also have an exciting new concept coming this Autumn in a new space at Euston.

SSP operates over 200 international, national, local and speciality brands, catering for a wide range of tastes to travellers in both airports and railway stations. Brands which SSP UK owns within the rail portfolio include well-known favourites such as Upper Crust, Camden Food Co., Millie’s Cookies, Whistlestop, The Pasty Shop, BreadBox and Caffe Ritazza, as well as operating franchises for Burger King, Starbucks and M&S Simply Food. Its brand portfolio is tailored for each specific location, depending on variables such as passenger profile, consumer need states, location type, size and design.

For further information about SSP, please visit www.foodtravelexperts.com

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VTG Rail UK, Sponsor

As Britain’s largest independent wagon hire company, and now entering its fourth year or sponsorship, VTG Rail UK is well suited to promote an award which celebrates business excellence in freight.

VTG Managing Director Rob Brook, said: “We have been very proud to sponsor the Rail Freight Excellence Award for the past two years, so much so that we have agreed to continue our support for a further three years. We feel it is very important to have an award which acknowledges achievements in freight.”

Based in Birmingham, VTG Rail UK, a subsidiary of Europe’s leading private wagon hire and rail logistics company VTG Aktiengesellschaft, operates a fleet of over 1,500 wagons. This extensive fleet offers the widest portfolio of any wagon lessor and can be divided into two principal sectors, bulk and tank. The bulk fleet is primarily concerned with the transportation of dry and solid products, while the tank fleet provides specialist equipment for the movement of liquid, chemical and compressed gas products.

This spring VTG signed a contract with BP Oil for the purchase and leaseback of 124 tank wagons, adding to the 191 it brought in 2002. The acquisition not only represented a significant increase to VTG’s already expansive fleet, but also introduced GB Oils and BP Air as new customers.

As part of the deal, VTG took on responsibility for all maintenance and regulatory matters in respect of the fleet which also became eligible for VTG’s wagon replacement programme, under which it can replace some or all of the fleet with newer wagons from its existing fleet as appropriate. VTG is able to offer this service due to the way it manages its wagons across its whole fleet and brings a substantial benefit to customers who no longer have to fund the considerable capital expenditure which would otherwise be needed for wagon replacement.

The BP Oil agreement represents the latest in a series of successful purchase and leaseback deals completed by VTG over the last few years.

This year has also witnessed the completion of VTG’s first ever biomass wagons as part of an agreement with GBRf to modify a section of its brand new coal hopper fleet. Working in conjunction with its suppliers, Lloyd’s Register Rail, W.H Davis and ITT, VTG has designed an automated roof system which has been retrofitted to its wagons, to ensure the biomass product stays in optimum condition during its journey to Drax Power Station.

Not only has VTG been involved with the design of this unique wagon, but subsequently with bringing a new product to rail on a significant scale, and thereby aiding Drax’s commitment to further reduce its carbon footprint through the use of renewable sources of energy.

The start of 2010 saw VTG celebrate a successful first year in its 15-year purchase and leaseback deal with Tarmac Buxton Lime and Cement, whilst April marked the commencement of a new agreement to supply box wagons to Thamesteel for the movement of scrap steel.

Would you like to participate? Apply to Sponsor here.

Electro Motive, Electro Motive

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ATA-Rail, Sponsor

As a specialist recruitment provider supporting the rail sector ATA are proud to be sponsoring the Rail Business Manager of the Year.

ATA's rail recruitment team have collectively over 50 years of rail recruitment experience. With a full appreciation of the requirements to work in the Rail industry, ATA sources permanent and contract candidates to work with clients that build, maintain and operate the UK's various rail and clients that operate overseas.

'The capability to transfer recruits across industry boundaries has made ATA Rail an essential part of many clients recruitment process, and helped to continue to increase the skills talent pool in the Rail industry,' commented Scott Bulloch Head of Rail for ATA.

The combination of a leading rail recruitment and training business enables ATA to provide clients with cost effective innovative solutions through combining recruitment and training services to help 'bridge the skill gaps' in the industry. The broad range of capability within the group, coupled with a bespoke rather than 'off the peg' approach to solutions, ensures each individual client receives increased added value. 'Whilst most clients have similarities in their needs, it is understanding their unique differences that allows you to differentiate and deliver a better service,' said Scott.

'Following on from the success of sponsoring the category of Rail Business Manager of the Year since 2008 it was not a difficult decision to continue our support in 2012. The recognition of excellence in performance is a virtue that we hold extremely highly within our own organisation, and I very much look forward to presenting the award to the worthy winner on the night,' commented Scott.

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Northstar, Northstar

North Star has decades of experience of operations and customer service in the transport industry in rail, aviation and roads. Our services range from niche specialist consultancy to hands-on delivery of solutions.

We specialise in operations concept through to implementation, service improvement and the management of disruption with the customer experience in mind. North Star helps clients to achieve maximum levels of customer service, retaining and growing their customer base.

We have supported many blue chip transport organisations including Siemens, Hitachi , Serco, Balfour Beatty, Vinci, easyJet, First Group and SNC-Lavalin.

North Star is a sponsor of the RBA category Customer Information and Service Excellence, a new category offered to recognise and reward organisations that can demonstrate excellence in the provision of information at those moments of truth providing excellent customer service.

Would you like to participate? Apply to Sponsor here.

Institution of Railway Operators, IRO

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Railnews, Sponsor

Railnews is pleased to support the HSBC Rail Business Awards, sponsoring the Excellence in Internal Communications category. As the national newspaper communicating with railway staff for over 40 years, Railnews was a logical sponsor for this new award in 2006.

Railnews is widely read throughout the rail industry - circulating 63,000 copies every month, with a total of around 200,000 readers, according to independent research.

The paper was originally launched in 1963, selling for sixpence (2.5p). After Sir Peter Parker, who placed great emphasis on good internal communications, became British Rail chairman in 1977 Railnews was issued free to all employees until BR was privatised 10 years ago.

British Rail closed Railnews in October 1996 but a small group of former rail managers, led by Cyril Bleasdale and Alan Marshall, acquired and registered the title and re-launched Railnews under independent ownership four months later.

Since February 1997 over eight million copies of Railnews have been printed and circulated throughout the industry. Most of the major employers, including Network Rail and many train operating companies, arrange for their staff to receive copies.

Railnews readers are spread right across the industry - freight and passenger train operating companies account for 44%; Network Rail and its principal suppliers, 35%; consultancies, 6%; traction and rolling stock build and maintenance, 5%; and personal subscribers, 10%.

Independent research shows 36% of readers have a degree, or technical or professional qualification, and 36% are in the middle manager, senior manager/professional or board level/Director categories.

"The paper's great popularity has been confirmed by independent research," says managing director Cyril Bleasdale. "This has shown Railnews is by far the most popular source of news and information for rail staff.

"Asked about how readers ‘obtained information recently about things that affect your job and about railway matters' 61% said from Railnews. The other most popular information source, for 39% of people, was ‘The Grapevine'."

Railnews also scored highly for ‘helpfulness' (81%) - the next most helpful source being ‘notices on boards' (68%) and ‘team briefing' (67%).

"But Railnews' greatest strength is its objective and dispassionate news coverage by our editorial team, which combines professional railway people and specialist journalists," says Cyril Bleasdale. "The last research gave Railnews a 75% ‘objectivity/dispassionate' rating, compared to 54% for company newsletters."

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The Chartered Institute For Logistics And Transport, Supporter

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK - CILT(UK) - is the professional body for individuals and organisations involved in all disciplines, modes and aspects of logistics and transport.

CILT's Chief Executive, Steve Agg FCILT, says: "We exist to promote professionalism in all aspects of our industry, and so we fully support the aims of the HSBC Rail Business Awards and are delighted to be closely involved again this year."

As the focus for the on-going development of professional excellence and the promotion of the most modern techniques in logistics and transport, the Institute aims to encourage the adoption of policies that are both efficient, sustainable and respond to the challenges of a changing world.

Its primary objective is education and training and a key challenge for CILT is the promotion of professional development through formal learning to offset the chronic skills shortages in both disciplines.

The Institute's 20,000 members have privileged access to a unique range of benefits and services designed to support members personally and professionally throughout their careers, such as online access to one of the largest library and information resources in Europe.

A network of 25 specialist Forums, which include the Strategic Rail, Passenger Transport, Transport Planning and the Freight Transport Forums, coupled with CILT members and contacts in over 50 countries around the world, help the Institute's members connect with worldwide expertise.

The Institute provides a comprehensive qualifications programme to enhance the knowledge, competence and respect of individuals working in logistics and transport. Its professional qualifications are recognised within the UK and worldwide as a statement of professional achievement and ability.

Contact: +44 (0)1536 740104

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Railway Industry Association, Supporter

The Railway Industry Association is the business focus of Britain's railway supply industry. Our members include manufacturers, maintainers, contractors, consultants, leasing companies and providers of specialist services to the world's railways. Between them they provide virtually all the products and services needed to maintain, renew or build railway systems and their capabilities range from restructuring and modernisation of entire railways to supply of small highly-specialised components.

Members benefit from a wide range of services, including a comprehensive supply of information, representation, seminars and networking opportunities. RIA represents members and their interests to railway, government, technical and other official bodies. RIA is recognised as the trade body for the supply industry and plays an active role in discussions and consultations at all levels.

A current focus of much activity is on supply chain improvement. RIA has developed an initiative known as VIP - the Value Improvement Programme - based on experience gained from the aviation and automotive industries. Established techniques are used to transform relationships between business partners and dramatic efficiencies and productivity improvements have been achieved in pilot studies. Application of the VIP is now being rolled out across the industry.

RIA is actively involved in the development of technical standards and organises industry participation in the relevant British and European standards committees. Representatives have taken a leading part in the development and implementation of the Technical Standards of the EU Interoperability Directives. We also participate actively in the activities of UNIFE, the European trade association for the railway supply industry, and EFRTC, the European Federation of Railway Trackworks Contractors.

Privatisation of Britain's main line railways has transferred to the industry he design, production and management skills of the national railway. Combined with the innovation and flexibility of the private sector, this has given British industry an unequalled total capability in the supply, equipment, maintenance and operation of railway systems of all kinds. RIA seeks to promote activities of its members in markets around the world, whether as direct exports from the UK or through partnerships with local companies. Support provided to British companies included arranging trade missions both to and from the UK and the organisation of UK pavilions at trade fairs around the world.

RIA's comprehensive website at www.riagb.org.uk contains more information about the Association itself and about UK industry generally. RIA operates a one-stop advice service for sourcing equipment, services and expertise from the UK and the website includes a searchable directory of all members.

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Rail Professional, Media Partner

Each month, Rail Professional carries news, features and in-depth analysis of today's railways. The magazine, launched just after privatisation in 1996, keeps professionals in touch with developments across the industry.

No longer do all railway professionals work for BR and therefore have regular contact with each other. The privatised railway needs a forum that allows managers to air their views and keep up-to-date with developments in other areas of the industry. Rail Professional provides just that.

The magazine's popular management recruitment section is also a must-read resource for readers when it's time for a career move. Rail Professional goes out to 8,500 named individuals who work for Network Rail, train and freight operating companies, contractors and suppliers. Each issue is written by respected railway writers and editors, who provide authoritative but unbiased articles about Britain' s railways. Influential industry figures also contribute opinion pieces.

Would you like to participate? Apply to Sponsor here.

Lloyds Register Rail, Sponsor

We are the specialist team of transportation experts within the Lloyd's Register Group. From offices in the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, we provide a wide range of expert advisory and assurance services to improve the safety, performance, quality and management of rail systems across the world.

The services we offer include:

• Expert advice - Technical expertise is the backbone of our business. We offer expertise in rolling stock, signalling systems, safety engineering, human factors, energy efficiency, project management, software testing, power systems, civil engineering and asset management.

• Independent Assurance - To many people, Lloyd’s Register is synonymous with independent assurance. We inspected and certified our first locomotive boiler in 1929 and have been independently assuring products, systems, processes and whole railways ever since.

• Training - We provide generic and bespoke courses aimed squarely at professionals within the rail industry. We are renowned for our Yellow Book training.

• Conditioning Monitoring Systems - We have developed a range of infrastructure- and train- based condition monitoring systems that can help prevent reasonable wear and tear on a railway escalating into costly, sometimes life threatening failures. We are European leaders in wheel-rail interface monitoring.

Client service is at the heart of everything we do and, as a member of the Lloyd’s Register Group, our independence is central to our ability to deliver technically correct judgements. This is why our clients trust us to be impartial, objective, and uncompromising in finding safe and reliable solutions.

For more information about how we can help you, visit www.lr.org/rail

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Woodhouse Communications, Organiser

Woodhouse Communications

The Rail Business Awards are owned and organised by Woodhouse Communications.

Established in 1998, Woodhouse is a leading full-service PR agency, specialising in providing communication solutions for the transport industry.

Started by Paul and Kim Lawson, who between them have over 40 years’ experience in the rail sector, Woodhouse Communications has become a well-known name amongst transport journalists and has a proven track record in delivering results.

From events management and media relations, to news releases, marketing support and advertising, Woodhouse offers a wide range of services to suit every budget, helping organisations communicate more effectively with their target audiences.

Working right across the transport industry, Woodhouse has helped organisations such as GB Railfreight, VTG, SSP UK, Raileasy, ATOC, The Railway Benefit Fund, Network Rail, the Institution of Railway Operators, National Rail Enquiries and others achieve their public relations, internal communications and marketing objectives.

Paul Lawson explains: “It was always our aim, with the creation of Woodhouse, to combine our considerable knowledge and expertise of the UK’s railways to create a specialist agency to help companies who work in the industry to raise their profile.”

By developing a working relationship that combine the accountability of an external supplier with the intimate feel of an in-house team, Woodhouse Communications can help you secure national and international coverage, hold high profile media events, produce inspiring external and internal publications and host imaginative corporate hospitality functions.

To find out more about Woodhouse Communications visit:

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Railway Benefit Fund, Nominated charity

The Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) is a charity that provides help and support to people who face problems of all kinds throughout the UK’s railway industry. The RBF offers financial assistance, practical help and wide-ranging advice to any needy active and retired staff and their dependents.

Every year, the RBF gives around £500,000.

Founded in 1858, the charity has had some famous names associated with it. Its early presidents included writer Charles Dickens and the Prince of Wales, later King Edward V!!. Queen Victoria donated funds and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother was the charity’s Patron for 63 years.

Although much is different in the railway world today compared to that of 150 years ago, in another sense nothing has changed. The RBF’s aim now, as it was then, is to help those in need. That work continues - and you can help. The RBF relies on the support of those throughout the industry to help railway people and their families facing distress or hardship, so please help us tonight.

In addition, you could become an RBF representative, a volunteer, a fundraiser or a friend.

And why not encourage your colleagues to raise money through one–off or regular donations, through payroll giving or by remembering the RBF in a will? There’s lots more information about the RBF’s work on its website below, or you can give us a ring on 01270 251316.

Let’s look after our own - support the RBF.

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