Freightliner-Breedon: UK Rail Freight Expansion & Sustainability

Freightliner and Breedon Group Forge Ahead with Expanded Rail Freight Agreement

In a significant development for the UK rail freight sector, Freightliner has announced two new five-year agreements with Breedon Group plc, a leading construction materials company. These contracts, encompassing both cement and aggregate transport, represent a major expansion of Freightliner’s role in supporting Breedon’s nationwide logistics network. The agreements, which went into effect with the first aggregate service on June 28th, cover the movement of vital construction materials, from quarries and production facilities to distribution centers across the country. This strategic partnership strengthens the existing relationship between the two companies and underscores the ongoing importance of rail freight in the UK’s construction industry. The renewed commitment between Freightliner and Breedon highlights the increasing demand for sustainable and efficient transport solutions within the construction sector and showcases how both companies are collaborating to optimize supply chains, improve environmental performance, and invest in long-term operational resilience.

New Aggregate Haulage Deal Unveiled

The cornerstone of the new agreement is the introduction of a comprehensive aggregate haulage deal. This involves the transportation of materials from Breedon’s Dowlow and Shap quarries to strategically important locations such as Ashbury and Walsall, as well as deliveries to third-party sites throughout the UK. To accommodate the requirements of this expanded service, Freightliner has deployed Class 70 locomotives, designed for heavier and longer train configurations, with the goal of boosting capacity and improving the environmental impact of the haulage operations. This use of a more powerful locomotive class enables the movement of greater volumes of aggregate per journey, resulting in a reduction in road traffic and a decrease in overall carbon emissions per tonne of material transported. This new aggregate contract strengthens Freightliner’s position in the bulk materials market and supports Breedon’s commitment to sustainable logistics solutions.

Rolling Stock Innovation: Repurposing for Sustainability

A key aspect of the new agreement involves innovative repurposing of existing rolling stock. Freightliner is collaborating with WH Davis and Porterbrook to convert redundant coal wagons into specialized aggregate box wagons. This initiative, which is being carried out at WH Davis’s Mansfield facility, directly addresses the need for a more sustainable and efficient supply chain. This refurbishment program not only reduces waste by giving a second life to underused assets, but also increases capacity, efficiency, and reduces the environmental impact associated with the transport of construction materials. By investing in existing assets, Freightliner demonstrates a commitment to circular economy principles and reduces the need for the manufacturing of new rolling stock, a key component of the company’s environmental strategy.

Infrastructure Investments for Enhanced Efficiency

Alongside the introduction of new rolling stock and aggregate transport, Freightliner is making significant investments in infrastructure to optimize operations. A new maintenance and fuelling facility has been established at Dowlow Quarry. This facility ensures the smooth running of daily operations and reduces downtime. The infrastructure improvements are crucial for maintaining the reliability and efficiency needed to support the long-term contract. These investments allow Freightliner to provide a reliable and efficient service, supporting Breedon’s production and distribution requirements and increasing productivity at key sites. Moreover, the improvements demonstrate Freightliner’s dedication to providing its customer, Breedon, with a streamlined and dependable rail freight solution.

Renewed Cement Contract and Decarbonisation Goals

Building on a successful, long-standing partnership spanning over 25 years, the renewed cement contract covers the transportation of cement from Breedon’s Hope Cement Works to key distribution sites including Dagenham, Theale, Dewsbury and Walsall. Furthermore, the contract now includes the delivery of Alternative Raw Materials (ARMs) from Llandudno and Drax Power Station to the Hope facility. This change directly supports Breedon’s decarbonization and circular economy initiatives. To accommodate the increased volume of traffic, Freightliner has invested in infrastructure upgrades at Earles Sidings, which will enhance train turnaround times and improve reliability. These enhancements provide a direct contribution to the companies’ environmental targets and contribute to a greener future for freight operations.

Conclusion

The extended partnership between Freightliner and Breedon Group marks a significant step forward for both companies and the wider UK rail freight industry. The new agreements, covering both cement and aggregate transport, emphasize the ongoing importance of rail in the construction sector and highlight the benefits of long-term strategic partnerships. The utilization of modern locomotives, the repurposing of rolling stock, and infrastructure upgrades are indicative of the forward-thinking approach that is driving the industry toward more sustainable and efficient freight solutions. The collaboration with Breedon demonstrates Freightliner’s commitment to providing reliable, efficient, and environmentally conscious services, further cementing its position as a leading player in the UK’s rail freight market. This initiative serves as a compelling example of how the rail freight sector can contribute to decarbonization goals and support the circular economy by offering efficient, dependable, and environmentally friendly transport solutions.

Company Summary

Freightliner is a leading rail freight operator in the UK, providing a comprehensive range of services for a diverse portfolio of industries, including construction, intermodal, and bulk materials. The company is known for its extensive network, reliable operations, and commitment to innovation, constantly striving to improve efficiency and sustainability. Breedon Group plc is a leading construction materials group in the UK and Ireland. The company operates a network of quarries, asphalt plants, and concrete plants, supplying a wide range of products for the construction industry. Rail transport is an integral part of Breedon’s logistics strategy, reflecting its commitment to sustainable and efficient supply chain management.