Rail Forum has launched the third and final edition of its UK Rail Manufacturing Capability Brochure in its current format, reinforcing the sector’s role in driving economic growth, decarbonisation and export opportunity.
The brochure showcases the breadth and depth of UK rail manufacturing at a time when domestic capability, resilient supply chains and skills development are firmly back in focus. More than 30% of Rail Forum members are directly involved in manufacturing rail-related products across the UK, underlining the sector’s continued strength and diversity.
Designed as a practical resource, the brochure helps customers, partners and policymakers identify specialist UK manufacturing expertise and connect with suppliers across the country.
Cat Appleby, Membership & Engagement Director at Rail Forum, said the publication plays a key role in promoting the sector at home and abroad. She added that, alongside initiatives such as the #MayMake campaign, the brochure continues to raise the profile of UK rail manufacturing nationally and internationally.
The latest edition has again been supported by Rail Forum’s Strategic Partners, Made in Britain and Make UK, alongside Manufacturing Partner Transport Design International (TDI).
Neil Hodgson, Deputy Director for Energy Intensive Industries, Rail and Maritime at the Department for Business and Trade, welcomed the brochure as an effective way of highlighting UK capability while enabling organisations to find specialist manufacturing expertise that can enhance rail activity and deliver social value.
Make UK’s Regional Director for the Midlands and East of England, Chris Corkan, described the publication as a vital resource for the rail supply chain, noting the importance of investment in rail to support wider economic growth. Made in Britain CEO John Pearce echoed the value of collaboration, highlighting the crucial role manufacturers play in delivering UK infrastructure despite ongoing challenges.
As Manufacturing Partner, Transport Design International said the brochure aligns closely with its focus on lightweight technologies and very light rail solutions, supporting growth both in the UK and overseas.
The launch also reflects continued progress within Rail Forum’s Manufacturing Workstream. Since May 2024, activity guided by a dedicated Steering Group has included targeted engagement for members, such as a Manufacturing Roundtable and a National Manufacturing Day networking event in Shildon.
The publication follows the Transport Committee’s recent Engine for Growth: Securing Skills for Transport Manufacturing report, which called on government to go further in supporting public procurement from British manufacturers.
Rail Forum said it will continue working with members, partners and government to promote UK rail manufacturing capability and strengthen connections domestically and internationally.
