Railtex 2019 attracts more than 400 exhibitors from 22 countries

The UK’s premier exhibition of railway equipment, systems and services takes place in Birmingham this week

RAILTEX: More than 400 exhibitors from 22 countries will be converging on the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham for the 14th Railtex international trade fair, organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

Covering a full range of railway technology and services, the three-day event will see a variety of organisations exhibiting, including major rolling stock and signalling suppliers.

Record levels of investment in the UK rail sector are expected to continue as the network expands. With work getting underway on High Speed 2, future projects such as Crossrail 2 and Transport for the North’s £70bn masterplan are generating much interest across the global rail market.

As well as the main exhibition, a programme of technical seminars and discussion forums will be taking place in the show’s Conference Zone, Knowledge Hub and Seminar Theatre.

Recruitment showcase

Reflecting the global shortage of railway operating and engineering skills, as well as the growing need for expertise in new technologies, Railtex 2019 includes a specific focus on the recruitment, training and retention of railway staff.

Railway Gazette will be hosting a seminar on Bridging the Skills Gap in the Conference Zone at 10.30 on May 16. Moderated by Managing Editor Nick Kingsley, this interactive discussion will bring together a panel of industry and academic representatives to explore a range of topics including ways to improve the attractiveness of rail careers, equipping the next generation to work in an ever-changing rail sector, and meeting the specific staffing requirements of major railway projects over the next five to 10 years.

According to Mack Brooks’ Exhibition Manager Natalia Charman, ‘as the demand for rail sector and supply chain workers has grown in recent years, many initiatives have been launched to address the shortage of talent. Yet it is clear that major challenges remain, especially as the political turbulence of recent years risks making it harder to retain staff born outside the UK. We will be putting the spotlight firmly on these issues at Railtex, as we look to bring the industry together and create a better sector for all.’