We are delighted to announce that 2023 marks the Rail Forum’s 30th year. Originally established in 1993 by Derbyshire rail companies working collaboratively with key local stakeholders, Rail Forum has grown substantially from its humble beginnings to become the well-respected national body it is today.
The original focus was to help the supply chain during a time of major upheaval as British Rail was split into various successor companies and suppliers needed to maintain and make new contacts in these companies.
Chief Executive of Rail Forum, Elaine Clark said: “Back then there was real concern that the world-renowned expertise that existed locally would be lost during the privatisation process. Initially established by British Rail businesses based in the Rail Technical Centre, the successor to British Rail Engineering and local stakeholders, the organisation quickly grew to encompass the wider supply chain including companies from across the UK.”
“Some of that original focus, helping members to make contacts and understand their customer’s needs, is still core to what we do and arguably needed now more than ever as we face up to the latest reform agenda. But we do so much more than that to support our 360 members; from advocacy and influencing policy to supporting the skills agenda and delivering a wide range of events.”
Chair of Rail Forum, Will Rogers said: “I am especially proud to be Chair during our 30th anniversary year. All those years ago we began life as a not-for-profit organisation focussed on supporting the supply chain and wider industry and that remains the same today. Our members are at the heart of everything we do. During this next 12 months we will be hosting several events and driving more new initiatives alongside our continued advocacy for rail and we look forward to celebrating our 30 years with members and key stakeholders.”
Elaine Clark continued: “Over the coming weeks and months we have a number of exciting activities, initiatives and events to launch to mark our 30th year. These will be aligned to our members’ and the industry’s priorities. So, watch this space for these in addition to a very special announcement next week!”
Rail Forum is putting together a timeline of memorable moments from the last 30 years and invites its members and industry colleagues to share memories and important (and amusing) stories to include. Please contact jemma@railforum.uk to submit your Rail Forum memorable moments.
