Heathrow Express Supplier Challenge

Join The Rail Innovation Group on a journey from Paddington to Heathrow for a unique Dragons’ Den-style event. Start-ups and small suppliers will pitch solutions to Heathrow Express’s real-world challenges, from seamless staff access and confident passenger navigation to proving the train’s green advantage.

Expect live pitches, roundtable discussion, and networking with industry leaders.

Note: this event will lead into our Christmas networking social. If you would like to join  only for the social event, please register here..

Event Overview

Join Heathrow Express and the Rail Innovation Group for a unique supplier challenge, bringing together start-ups, small suppliers, and innovators to pitch solutions to real-world challenges in one of the UK’s flagship rail links.

This curated “Dragons’ Den”-style roundtable will take participants on a Heathrow Express journey from London Paddington to Heathrow Airport, where shortlisted suppliers will present their ideas directly to Heathrow Express decision-makers. The event will also be attended by industry colleagues, creating a platform for new voices in rail to be heard.

The session will focus on practical, data-driven innovation and the role of SMEs in shaping a smarter, greener passenger experience — reflecting the Rail Innovation Group’s mission to diversify rail’s supply chain and support smaller companies to thrive.

– This event is open to members and non-members of the Rail Innovation Group. The event is subject to capacity constraints, please register your interest to secure your place –

Challenges include:

• A digital solution to enable seamless staff travel through the network: a secure and user-friendly access solution that removes the need for staff intervention, ensures only eligible staff receive free travel, ensures accurate data collection.
• Proving, Promoting & Positioning Heathrow Express as the Smart, Green Choice: an innovative solutions to shape customer perception by highlighting Heathrow Express’ core strengths of speed, space, and premium service, while reinforcing its position as the smartest and greenest choice for airport transfers.
• First and Last Mile Connectivity: solutions that integrate Heathrow Express with other transport modes and services to deliver a seamless and stress-free end-to-end journey, while also helping passengers confidently understand their travel options.

Who Should Attend?

• Start-ups and small digital suppliers looking to showcase their solutions.
• Rail and transport professionals seeking to learn from new suppliers.
• Influencers, trade press, and industry stakeholders interested in rail innovation

Why Attend?

• Pitch directly to Heathrow Express and industry stakeholders.
• Gain visibility with trade press and influencers.
• Be part of shaping solutions around sustainability, customer experience, and future-ready rail services.

About the Rail Innovation Group

The Rail Innovation Group is committed to building a sustainable rail ecosystem by driving innovation and fostering collaborations. Through partnerships with UK rail suppliers, we connect businesses with growth opportunities and enhanced efficiency. We lead the way in shaping the future of rail transport by supporting start-ups and small digital companies, boosting rail supply chain innovation, and championing cutting-edge technologies that drive industry progress. Find out about membership here..

– This event is open to members and non-members of the Rail Innovation Group. The event is subject to capacity constraints, please register your interest to secure your place.