The award recognises major new contributions to the rail freight or logistics sector where the outcome measurably enhances the role of rail in the supply chain.
Now in its 20th year, the National Rail Awards celebrates excellence in Britain’s rail industry, recognising a host of successes from train drivers who saved lives and a railwayman with 58 years of service who helps passengers at London’s Waterloo station. BBC newsreader Huw Edwards hosted the event on 19 September at Grosvenor House Hotel in London.
VTG Rail also won the award in 2017 for its conversion of redundant coal wagons into revenue-generating aggregate hoppers. VTG had anticipated there was going to be an issue with coal wagons becoming redundant following the government’s decision in April 2015 to double the carbon floor price – effectively making coal uneconomical as a power station fuel.
On winning for the second time, Ian Shaw, VTG Rail’s Sales & Marketing Director, said: “We are delighted to have won this prestigious award again. This was a very successful project that involved a great deal of collaboration and was a testament to what can be achieved when all parties work together.”
Joint partner in the project and award entry Ralph Goldney, Railfreight Consulting, added: “This project has seen significant new private investment in terminals and wagons provide a cost effective solution for British Airways which will operate for at least 15 years. It significantly increases the resilience of fuel supply into our nation's largest airport and I can think of no better example of the rail freight industry working together to meet the needs of industry and the country. I am delighted that four years of hard work has been recognised by the NRA judges.”