UK: The key role played by rail freight and logistics during the coronavirus pandemic has helped to raise awareness of the significant potential for rail to support the decarbonisation of freight transport in the years ahead. Meanwhile, the increasing shortage of drivers for heavy goods vehicles is encouraging shippers, logistics companies and political decision-makers to look more closely at the benefits that rail can offer.
The Rail Business Awards has long sought to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in rail freight, with the award criteria being widened in recent years to embrace the wider logistics community. Recent winners of the award for Rail Freight & Logistics Excellence have recognised the introduction of new freight flows by rail, the development of terminal facilities and innovative rolling stock, and the provision of support services, as well as strong all-round commercial performance.
The 2021 award was won by a joint entry from DB Cargo UK and Maritime Transport for an intermodal partnership which has seen a steady increase in the number of services operated as well as routes serving new terminals.
The 24th Rail Business Awards will provide another opportunity to recognise and celebrate excellence in this field. Entries are now being invited from any business or other organisation operating within the UK’s rail freight sector including train and terminal operators, logistics companies and supply chain or forwarding agents.
The judges will be looking for evidence of:
- the attraction of new freight traffic to rail, resulting in modal shift, revenue improvements or business growth;
- innovation and flexibility in meeting customer requirements, including the adaptation of services or products to improve efficiency or attract new business;
- regular communication with customers and suppliers;
- targeted, planned investment;
- performance and safety improvements.
Entries for the 24th Rail Business Awards are due to close on September 24, with the winners to be announced at a gala evening at the Royal Lancaster London on Wednesday February 23 2022. Further details of how to enter can be found at www.railbusinessawards.com
