Over the space of two days, the programme will combine keynote speeches, panel discussions, interview sessions, spotlight exhibitor pitches and unique networking opportunities.

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About RIA Member Interest Groups
Member Interest Groups (MIGs) are specialist events run by RIA) to support our members’ diverse interests across the rail sector.

Focusing on key areas such as rolling stock, signalling, electrification, environment and sustainability, data and AI, and much more, MIGs provide a platform for learning, discussion, and knowledge-sharing. These half-day, members-only events are hosted across the UK within RIA’s Nations & Regions network, giving members the opportunity to connect on topics essential to their business.

Each MIG features expert speakers from leading organisations, including Network Rail Routes & Regions, Train Operating Companies, Devolved Authorities, Local Transport Bodies, and Major Rail Projects, as well as from the supply chain—from Tier 1 suppliers to SMEs.

Members may also host these events, showcasing their facilities and capabilities to the RIA community.

MIGs address crucial topics, including regulatory updates, standards, new practices, and innovative technologies that impact our members’ operations. However, the primary purpose of MIGs is networking: they are an invaluable chance for members to build connections, share insights, and strengthen collaborations within the rail industry.

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This session will cover:

What social value outcomes should take priority in rail projects today, and how do we ensure alignment with community needs?
What does effective collaboration between suppliers and public clients look like in the early stages of a tendering process or project to maximise social value?
How can we implement practical approaches for defining, delivering, and measuring social value?
Using Natter’s AI-powered facilitation, participants will engage in real-time, inclusive discussions, co-creating actionable recommendations on ways of working that will inform RIA’s work with clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

Be part of this impactful session, collaborate with peers, contribute your voice, and help shape RIA’s ongoing work. This event is open to all, and we encourage people from across the industry to attend and contribute to the discussions.

Introducing Natter

For this unique virtual experience, we’ll be using Natter (www.trynatter.com), an AI-powered conversational intelligence tool that connects participants in video conversations, anonymously captures perspectives, and intelligently analyses the responses.

We will anonymously capture the collective perspectives of the industry in an hour. We will share the insights and results with all those who participated to drive learning and mutual understanding.

How to Participate

Natter is accessed on a desktop web browser, with no downloads or software installations required. If you’re joining from a highly secure environment and want to test your firewall or any other settings, you can use Natter’s 2-minute Tech Check (here: https://app.natter.co/tech-check).

In order to participate, simply:

Click on the URL Link: Click on the Natter URL link that will be provided in advance and register. You can do this ahead of time, to save time on the day.
Test your Camera and Mic: When requested, ensure you give Natter access to your camera and microphone and test these settings as you join to ensure you can be seen and heard.
Technical Queries: Email Natter Support for any guidance live (team@natter.co)

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In this event, we will focus on developing solutions for the priorities highlighted at last year’s event:

Supporting and enhancing recent train performance improvements
Improving safety for colleagues and partners
Delivering greater financial efficiency
Climate adaptation and resilience

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RIA are excited to welcome you to their next Member’s Connect session on 15 September 2025 at the Mott MacDonald’s offices, 10 George St, Edinburgh. This event is an opportunity to connect with fellow RIA members and the RIA team.

RIA’s Member’s Connect events are designed to bring RIA members together to network, share experiences, and strengthen industry connections. Engaging with peers allows you to exchange best practices, gain valuable insights, and maximise the benefits of your RIA membership. We’ll also take this opportunity to highlight the wide range of member benefits available; from policy-driven opportunities to innovation insights, and welcome your feedback on what else would enhance your membership experience.

What to Expect:

Key updates on RIA’s main activities

Insights into industry initiatives and market developments

A chance to meet the RIA team, ask questions, and network over drinks and nibbles

The post Members Connect RIA Scotland Rail Summit 2025 appeared first on RBD.

Transport Select Committee call for evidence – Skills for transport manufacturing – deadline 15 September.
Transport Select Committee call for evidence – Joined-up journeys: achieving and measuring transport integration – deadline 16 October.
Members will be able to provide feedback and contributions to the RIA responses. We hope you can join us. If you would like to get in touch with any queries or suggestions, please contact:

RIA Policy Executive Dominic Poole – Joined-up journeys: achieving and measuring transport integration
RIA Policy Executive Reuben Bull – Skills for transport manufacturing

Microsoft Teams
Join the meeting now
Meeting ID: 319 293 974 558 0
Passcode: sb3pv9fS

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This session will be held on Teams Live – you can join the call from 14:00.

The post Network Rail Supply Chain Quarterly Update – September 2025 appeared first on RBD.

A flagship event in the Unlocking Innovation programme, the RIA Innovation Conference brings together inspirational leaders, pioneering engineers, ambitious entrepreneurs and passionate railway professionals. We know, the railway industry has a plethora of interesting events from which to choose, many of which are delivered by our own RIA team. However, the RIA Innovation Conference has a special place in our and, we hope, our members’ calendars. We have already tried several new elements at the last event, such as the TOC Pitch Session, Exhibitor Spotlights, and innovators’ TechTalks. All of these have received positive feedback from attendees, allowing the event to be more interactive and engaging. For RIA Innovation Conference 2025, we are continuing to challenge ourselves on how to deliver a stand-out event for our members and partners. The event will combine an opportunity for you to share your innovations, be inspired by technological and research advancements happening in the UK and around the world, engage with clients and suppliers to overcome barriers and, most importantly, have fun!

Super Early Bird Tickets end on 27 July 2025

“Very well organised event for innovators in the rail industry.”
Dominic O’Malley, Tended

“RIC 2024 at Newport was another brilliantly orchestrated melting pot of thinking, direction, ideas, and solutions. Over the years this has become a go to event. Putting Network Rail and all parts of its supply chain in one place together has created a genuine sense of optimism for the next Control Period!”
Ben Blackwall, Capgemini

“As Arcadis we have been a sponsor for 3 years. For us this has been the best event yet. We have had the chance to showcase what we are doing but most importantly learn from and collaborate with other industry colleagues and those from other sectors. It truly is an inspiring event and we come ahead from ICC Wales with renewed vigor and determination to move the industry forward. We recognise that events like this take considerable organisation and a vision. To Milda and the whole of the RIA team. Thank you for organising such a wonderful event. We look forward to supporting you through the other Unlocking Innovation events including Innotrans in Sept”.
Christopher Pike, Arcadis

“Excellent event well run and very enjoyable”.
Andy Cargo, Tended

“Once again, the RIA team managed to exceed all expectations and pull off an event that is as perfect as they come. The conference was full of networking opportunities, inspiring keynotes, exciting demos and more robots than ever! The RIA Innovation Conference has proved yet again to be the yearly must-attend event for innovators in the railway industry”.
Mario Ramos-Garcia, Aegis Engineering

“Attending the RIA Innovation Conference at the stunning Celtic Manor was an absolute delight! The venue provided a refreshing change of scenery, offering ample space to explore the latest innovations in the rail industry. It was fantastic to witness new ideas and technologies taking centre stage, showcasing the exciting future of rail transport. Thanks for inviting the Rail Innovation Group to be a part of this transformative event. Can’t wait to see what surprises next year’s event has in store!”
Johannah Randall, Rail Innovation Group

“Thoroughly enjoyed this year’s Innovation Conference. We were lucky enough to exhibit and catch up with some current contacts as well as making some new connections. Hopefully the event has helped to promote awareness of the charity within the rail industry. Thank you to RIA for an excellent conference and for looking after us so well”.
Suzy Powell, Rail Benefit Fund

“RIA have done once again, a fantastic innovation conference allowing the supply chain to gain much needed exposure moving into CP7 and beyond. As an exhibitor we had meaningful customer interactions as well superb networking opportunities enticing new and potential clients. Overall, an epic profile-raising event that has gained us the much needed revelations and put us in the forefront. Thanks Team RIA!”
Nuno Vasco, Phoenix Contact

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This event will be preceded by a networking lunch with the RIA Board.

Speakers will be confirmed shortly.

For more information, please contact Policy Executive Dominic Poole at dominic.poole@riagb.org.uk.

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The event will bring together over 100 industry leaders and senior stakeholders to discuss the strategic direction of the rail industry in Wales. It is open to all rail suppliers and stakeholders active in the region, with complimentary tickets available for all RIA member organisations.

The summit will be packed with insights and opportunities for the Welsh rail supply chain. Attendees can expect keynote presentations and panel discussions featuring a range of industry leaders. The day will offer a valuable chance to reconnect with clients, suppliers, and stakeholders and to reinforce your commercial presence with key decision-makers in Wales.

Agenda highlights include:

Robert Cairns, Regional Managing Director, Network Rail Wales & Western
Project Updates from Transport for Wales, including a presentation from Dan Smith, Projects Director – Infrastructure
A focus on North Wales, and upcoming projects in the region
Decarbonisation, including priorities for hydrogen in public transport
The importance of public transport in Wales for skills and economic growth

*Please note clients, TOC’s and government officials can request a complimentary ticket, please contact isabella.lawson@riagb.org.uk.

*Please note all tickets & bookings are non-refundable.

You can view the RIA event terms and conditions here.

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