Rail Forum is proud to announce the launch of the second edition of its UK Rail Manufacturing Capability brochure, further showcasing the strength, innovation, and diversity of rail manufacturing across the country.
With over 30% of Rail Forum members directly involved in manufacturing rail-related products, the UK’s rail manufacturing sector continues to play a vital role in enabling decarbonisation, strengthening domestic supply chains, developing future skills, and supporting economic growth. The updated brochure features 81 member case studies, reflecting the dynamic nature of this essential industry.
This second edition builds on the success of the inaugural brochure published in October 2024. It is launched as part of Rail Forum’s May-Make campaign and is supported by Manufacturing Partner, Transport Design International (TDI), along with Strategic Partners, Made in Britain and Make UK.
Geoff Newman, Chief Operations Officer at Transport Design International, said: “TDI is proud to support the second Edition of Rail Forum’s Manufacturing Capability Brochure, reinforcing our commitment as Manufacturing Partner for 2025-2026. This collaboration showcases UK manufacturing capabilities, a vital initiative for the rail sector.
“We are excited to be working with Rail Forum again to highlight the innovation and manufacturing expertise within our partnership. TDI’s focus on lightweight, sustainable mass transit solutions, including VLR technologies, aligns perfectly with the brochure’s aim to drive growth. As we expand our manufacturing presence, with a new Midlands facility, we look forward to fostering connections and supporting rail projects both in the UK and internationally.”
The past year has marked significant progress for Rail Forum’s Manufacturing Workstream, launched in May 2024 and guided by a steering group of 10 member organisations. Key milestones include:
- Two high-impact social media campaigns in collaboration with Made in Britain.
- A lively panel discussion at the Rail Forum Annual Conference exploring materials, innovation, skills, and supply chain resilience.
- A pioneering Servitisation workshop with Aston Business School, supporting 40 members to explore new customer-focused business models.
Mike Hill, Deputy Director for Rail and Maritime at Department for Business & Trade, said: “With 81 case studies featured in the second edition, this brochure provides an excellent showcase for the UK’s strengths and will be a valuable resource; including for the Department for Business and Trade, as it continues to champion the UK’s rail supply chain – at home and abroad.”
Chris Corkan, Region Director – Midlands & East of England at Make UK, said: “Make UK, the manufacturers organisation, is delighted to support the Rail Manufacturing Capability Brochure, especially as the Rail Forum is a highly valued Affiliate Partner.
“This brochure is a valuable resource in connecting businesses with each other and, in particular, shining a spotlight on companies who are able to supply the domestic rail network, as well as offering valuable export opportunities. The UK needs to boost economic growth and investment in our railways will play a vital part in achieving this aim.”
John Pearce, CEO at Made in Britain, said: “The transformation of the UK’s infrastructure and manufacturing capacity is unfolding at a pace few of us have witnessed, and its long-term impacts are difficult to fully predict or comprehend.
“Rail Forum helps us focus on what the sector can achieve when we work together to shape a stronger, more resilient future for British rail and manufacturing – delivering social, environmental, and economic value for all who care about world-class UK transport.”
Rail Forum looks forward to continued collaboration with members, partners, and government stakeholders to further elevate the UK’s rail manufacturing profile – nationally and internationally.
Cat Appleby, Membership & Engagement Director at Rail Forum, said: “We are incredibly proud to launch the second edition of our UK Rail Manufacturing Capability Brochure. The growth in participation and the enthusiasm of our members clearly reflect the strength and momentum within the UK rail manufacturing community.
“This brochure not only celebrates the capability that exists across the country but also plays a key role in connecting businesses, supporting collaboration, and promoting UK expertise on a global stage. We’re grateful to our partners and members who continue to shape and support this important work.”