Lumo has unveiled a newly redesigned Pride-themed train, celebrating LGBTQ+ organisations and community groups across its network, as the open-access operator reinforces its commitment to inclusion within the UK rail sector.
The all-electric train, which operates on the East Coast Main Line connecting London King’s Cross with Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow, now features the logos of key Pride partners. The move reflects a shift towards highlighting the organisations and volunteers who underpin Pride activity throughout the year.
The launch brought together community volunteers and a former Mr Gay GB, underlining the collaborative spirit behind the initiative and the links between Pride groups along the route.
Embedding Inclusion Beyond Pride Season
The updated livery builds on Lumo’s ongoing Pride branding, first introduced in 2023, but places greater emphasis on the organisations working behind the scenes to deliver safe, inclusive spaces.
Richard Salkeld, Director of Communications and Partnerships at Lumo, said:
"We’re proud to welcome everyone onboard at Lumo.
"Each logo featured on this train represents an organisation that works incredibly hard throughout the year to champion inclusion, support LGBTQ+ communities and create places where people can feel safe to be themselves. We are pleased to help shine a light on that great work.
"At Lumo, we believe our role is about far more than connecting towns and cities. It's about connecting people, communities and opportunities. That's why we're proud to place our partners' logos alongside our own. It's a visible reminder that when organisations work together, we can create something far greater than any of us could achieve alone."
The redesigned train is part of Lumo’s broader strategy to embed social value across its operations. Alongside Pride partnerships, the operator collaborates with charities, educational institutions and cultural organisations to improve accessibility and community engagement across its network.
Industry Recognition and Expanded Outreach
Earlier in 2026, Lumo was named Best Small Employer in Scotland at the Proud Scotland Awards in Glasgow, reflecting its internal focus on inclusion alongside external partnerships.
The operator is also expanding its Pride engagement this year, supporting a growing number of events and increasing staff participation across key locations including Newcastle, Gateshead, Edinburgh, Stirling and Glasgow.
Peter Darrant, Chief Executive of OUT North East, said:
"Our partnership with Lumo goes well beyond branding on a train. It reflects a genuine commitment to inclusion, equality and allyship, with Lumo standing alongside OUT North East and Pride Radio throughout the year.
"Seeing our logo travelling the length of the country on a Lumo train sends a powerful message to hundreds of thousands of passengers that LGBTQ+ people belong, that inclusion matters and that businesses can play an important role in supporting our communities. That's what Pride – and true allyship – is all about."
Strengthening Regional Connections
The unveiling comes ahead of Glasgow’s Pride celebrations, highlighting the strong links between Scottish and North East England Pride organisations served by the operator.
A spokesperson for Glasgow’s Pride said:
“We are incredibly proud to partner with Lumo, an organisation that shares our commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering inclusion. Seeing the Glasgow’s Pride logo travelling across the UK is a powerful reminder that Pride belongs everywhere and in every community. This partnership helps amplify our message of equality and encourages people from all backgrounds to stand together in support of LGBTQIA+ people."
A spokesperson for Edinburgh Pride said:
"Our partnership with Lumo demonstrates how businesses can make a genuine difference by using their platform to champion inclusion. Pride is about visibility, community and belonging, and seeing our organisation represented on a train connecting communities across Britain sends a powerful message that everyone deserves to feel welcome, wherever they travel."
Supporting Growth Along New Routes
The Pride train launch also aligns with Lumo’s recent expansion onto the West Coast Main Line, including new services linking Stirling with London. The operator is supporting Stirling Pride, scheduled for 29 August 2026, as part of its growing community footprint.
By combining network growth with targeted partnerships, Lumo is positioning itself as a leader in socially responsible rail travel—placing community, accessibility and inclusion at the centre of its operations.
Image credits: Lumo
