29.01.18
RIA agrees deal to work more closely with supply chain in East Midlands
The Railway Industry Association (RIA) and Rail Forum East Midlands (RFEM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) detailing how the two organisations will work more closely together in the future.
The MoU details how the two bodies will cooperate to increase the recognition of the value of the rail supply chain, both in the East Midlands and nationally.
Members of both organisations will reportedly benefit from the increased collaboration, through the sharing of relevant policy and technical information, events and services.
They will also receive joint support for lobbying activity in the Midlands, in exporting, and in the Industrial Standards agenda, through a “Rail Sector Deal.”
RIA and RFEM will work together to ensure a stronger, coordinated and consistent voice to the government on key issues facing the rail supply chain.
Darren Caplan, chief executive of the Railway Industry Association, called the announcement “fantastic,” adding: “For members, it will mean they get even more from both organisations, including more information and assistance on technical, policy and export matters as well as more visibility of rail supply chain events.
“Externally, we will work more closely with RFEM to showcase the importance of rail to government and stakeholders and to provide greater consistency in highlighting key priorities for the sector.”
General manager of Rail Forum East Midlands, Elaine Clark, explained that the industry has a number of challenges, as well as opportunities.
“By working together we can strengthen the case for change where it’s needed and ensure our members in the supply chain are best placed to develop their businesses and to grow and prosper,” she said.
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