InterCity Rail Freight (ICRF) has appointed Robin Gisby as its new Chairman, marking a significant step forward in the development of passenger rail logistics in the UK.
The appointment comes as ICRF advances its ambition to reintroduce parcels and light logistics traffic onto passenger train services across the national rail network. The company has already developed the operational capability, systems and technology needed to enable passenger operators to carry freight safely and efficiently, creating new revenue streams while supporting greener logistics and reducing van movements in towns and cities.
ICRF’s proposition reflects a modern evolution of historic rail‑based parcel networks, such as Red Star, updated to meet today’s operational, regulatory and logistics requirements. With growing pressure on road networks, rising fuel costs and an increasing focus on sustainability, passenger rail logistics is attracting renewed attention across the industry.
Robin Gisby brings extensive experience spanning passenger rail, freight, infrastructure and regulation. Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer of the Department for Transport Operator (DFTO), where he oversaw publicly owned train operators during a critical period of rail reform and the transition towards Great British Railways.
His career has encompassed senior roles across passenger operations, infrastructure management, regulation and freight, alongside a long‑standing belief in the railway’s ability to innovate and deliver greater value to the communities and businesses it serves.
Robin Gisby said:
“Passenger rail logistics presents tremendous opportunities for incremental revenue for passenger train operators, while also providing a fantastic service for the logistics sector.”
Given increasing congestion, the sustainability agenda, rising fuel costs, and continued pressure on driver availability, I believe this is a brilliant opportunity for the railway.
ICRF has developed a credible and practical operational approach to delivering that opportunity, and I’m very pleased to be part of it.”
ICRF’s leadership believes the appointment signals growing industry recognition of the role passenger rail logistics can play within the future railway and the wider UK logistics market.
Daniel Griffiths, CEO of ICRF, said:
“Robin’s experience, leadership, and understanding of both the operational and strategic railway environment make him exceptionally well placed to support ICRF as we continue developing partnerships across the rail and logistics sectors.
His appointment represents a major step forward for the business and for the wider opportunity to establish passenger rail logistics as part of the future of the UK railway.”
Image credit: InterCity Rail Freight
