Vp launches specialist rail division

Photo: Vp plc

Vp plc has launched a new rail division and said that it will give customers a direct access to all of its rail specialisms.

The company said the launch of Vp Rail, which it describes as an “integrated rail solution”, creates a new end market focus and will give customers direct and easier access to its scale and rail capabilities from across its divisions.

It said the division aims to provide customers with a single point of contact for project support, a central hire desk and streamlined quotation and invoicing process regardless of the size of the project.

Vp Rail’s services include on track products such as small plant, clipping and stress, compaction, lighting solutions, people and support; communications and survey such as specialist services, training, safety, survey, test & measurement and communications.

The division will also offer shoring and piling support, material handling and lifting solutions, tools and equipment and rail, vehicle and pedestrian access.

To date the company has worked within the UK railway sector through a variety of its companies, including Torrent Trackside, its principal rail plant, people and solutions business that already works for tier 1 and tier 2 contractors and a number of joint venture partners. 

Carl Abraitis, director, Vp Rail, “Vp Torrent Trackside has typically been the entry point for customers wanting to buy our rail expertise. However, other parts of the Group, notably Groundforce, Brandon Hire Station, TPA, ESS, and UK Forks, have specialist capabilities often used by customers on these projects.

“By creating Vp Rail we are able to offer an integrated package of services from across the Group’s divisions. This approach has already been well received by a small group of customers. We look forward to rolling out our enhanced offer.”

Jonathan May, chief operating officer added: “As a Group we have a long history of working in rail but historically customers have traded with our individual business units. This step will make it much easier for customers to transact with us. We also believe the roll out of Vp Rail better enables us to take advantage of new opportunities in the market.”

The launch is Vp’s latest development following the announcement of its refreshed strategy in June 2024, which will see its specialist divisions work “more closely together to drive growth and to focus on end markets.” This is supported by an enhanced digital strategy which aims to simplify processes and improve the customer experience.

At the same time, the company recently appointed Katy Tindal as Group head of procurement and acquired a majority share in specialist powered access company Charleville Hire and Platform (CPH).