Derby provides perfect setting for major rail expo

Derby has played host to a major rail industry expo, which attracted companies from across the country and beyond.

Last week, Derby Arena provided the setting for the Rail Vehicles and Enhancements (RVE) Expo 2021.

Aimed at companies involved in the engineering of rail vehicles for refurbishment, maintenance and enhancements, the day-long event featured an exhibition, a conference and a supplier engagement programme.

Organised by Modern Railways magazine – and supported by Rail Forum Midlands – one of the event’s key aims was to match suppliers with major companies.

This year, the event attracted a number of big industry names – including Derby train-maker Alstom, East Midlands Railway and Rail Forum Midlands, which represents a large number of rail firms across the region and beyond.

The show featured international exhibitors, buyers and a broad range of visitors from train owners, train operators, the consultancy industry, heavy maintainers, integrators, designers and the supply chain.

Among the exhibitors was Marketing Derby, which had a stand where attendees could find out more from its investment team about the benefits of locating their business in Derbyshire and how the inward investment agency could assist.

Marketing Derby was supported by partners Destination Chesterfield and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Christopher Tebbs, inward investment executive at Marketing Derby, said: “It was fantastic to exhibit at the 2021 Rail, Vehicles and Enhancements (RVE) exhibition.

“Helping to showcase Derby and Derbyshire’s strength within the rail sector, while being back among the broader rail community (in-person and not over Zoom!) was an amazing experience.

“The opportunity to discuss with businesses and individuals, the challenges and prospects that the rail sector is facing was truly second-to-none.

“The insights and connections made throughout the day were valuable to all – and not just those operating in the rail sector.”