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Friday, 13 May 2011


Stalls at an RIA-backed event

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Stalls at an RIA-backed event

Stalls at an RIA-backed event

Railway Industry Association (RIA)

The Railway Industry Association has worked closely with UK Trade & Investment for many years in fulfilling its role supporting and promoting the UK’s rail sector around the world.

The Railway Industry Association (RIA) is the trade association for UK-based suppliers of equipment and services to the world-wide rail industry. It represents over 160 members from a wide range of businesses, from signalling companies to environmental consultants. The RIA’s origins date back to 1875, when a group of steam locomotive builders formed an alliance and petitioned Parliament on fairness of trade issues. They eventually won their case and decided to form the Locomotive Manufacturers Association (LMA).

Ongoing support

The RIA works closely with UKTI in a joint effort to promote its members. In the last year, it has commissioned reports for markets such as Poland and the Middle East to help demonstrate the opportunities available in new overseas markets, and then to establish the right contacts to target.

In addition, when the RIA organises workshops or hosts briefing sessions, a UKTI representative is usually present to highlight the help and assistance it can offer RIA members when seeking international opportunities. In turn, the RIA takes part in UKTI Trade Missions exploring new markets, feeding back its findings to its members and constantly encouraging them to seek exporting opportunities.

“Over the years we have received unwavering support from UKTI.” says Tim. “They have helped us in many areas of our exports-related business, including advising on the little things that can really make the difference, such as accepted business etiquette in different countries. They have also helped us with larger tasks, such as compiling an effective invitation list for events, and using their own contacts to ensure that we target the right people in a new market. These are things that we couldn’t have known on our own, and have made a big difference in helping to improve the services we provide to UK companies.”