IRR welcomes GBR’s online rail ticket retailing

January 22, 2025

Following the announcement of Great British Railways’ plans for online rail ticket retailing, Anthony Smith, Chair of Independent Rail Retailers, said:

“Independent Rail Retailers welcome today’s clarification regarding Great British Railway’s retailing plans, which are expected to come into being in a number of years time. Open and fair competition will help to drive innovation and reduce costs, and we look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the Department for Transport and the rail industry to make buying a ticket simpler, easier and better value.”

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Shaping the Future of Rail at RIA’s Future of Rail Series: Demand

January 22, 2025

Anthony Smith, Chair at Independent Rail Retailers, recently joined industry leaders at the Railway Industry Association’s Future of Rail Series: Demand. During the session, Anthony highlighted the role independent retailers play in shaping the future of rail, emphasising their contribution to boosting revenue, growing passenger demand, and putting customers at the heart of the rail industry.

By fostering collaboration with the Government and industry stakeholders, Anthony discussed the opportunity to create a thriving railway network – one that is not only more affordable for passengers but also delivers better value for everyone involved. We extend our thanks to the Railway Industry Association and all panelists for hosting this discussion.

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Save even more with an Independent Rail Retailer in this year’s Rail Sale 

January 14, 2025

At Independent Rail Retailers, we’re all about helping passengers save money and getting more people back on trains – which is why we’re thrilled to support the Rail Sale. Starting Tuesday 14th January, the Rail Sale is back with savings of up to 50% on selected advance and off-peak fares. It’s the perfect chance to plan that city break, family getaway, or countryside escape you’ve been dreaming of – without breaking the bank. 

And there’s even more good news – in addition to your Rail Sale discount, you could save even more by booking through third-party retailers, thanks to extra options like split-ticketing. If you’re planning to travel, now is the perfect time to book and secure the best deal.

Anthony Smith, Chair of Independent Rail Retailers, said:

“The Rail Sale is a fantastic opportunity for passengers to explore Britain for less. By choosing a third-party retailer, passengers can benefit from additional tools and features designed to help customers save even more money. Retailers are here to make rail travel as convenient and affordable as possible, so why not check out an independent rail retailer and see what savings you could find”.

To find out more about our members, visit www.independentrailretailers.co.uk/who-we-are.

Whether it’s unlocking split-ticketing discounts or earning rewards through loyalty programs, independent rail retailers are here to help you save and get the most out of your journey.

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IRR Sponsors RIA’s Future of Rail series: Demand

January 9, 2025

Independent Rail Retailers are proud sponsor’s of Railway Industry Association’s Future of Rail: Demand event.

Our Chair, Anthony Smith, will join leaders from Women in Transport, Alstom and Rail Partners for a lively discussion on driving rail growth and boosting revenue for the industry.

To find out more or to register your place, head to RIA’s website.

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IRR partners with Transport Ticketing Global

December 19, 2024

We’re on a mission to grow the market for rail travel by making it simpler, easier and better value to travel by train. That’s why we’ve partnered with Transport Ticketing Global to showcase key industry developments and cutting-edge ticketing solutions from around the world.

Hear from industry experts and rising stars as they share their learnings and best practices through case studies, panel discussions and more. For more information or to secure your pass, click here.

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Anthony Smith shares insights on Transport Payments at Global Seminar

December 13, 2024
Last month, Anthony Smith, Chair at the IRR, took part in Transport Ticketing Global’s Travel & Transport Payment week: Digital Edition seminar.
Find out how third party rail retailers are leading the way in innovation and transforming ticketing tools to shape the future of rail travel. Catch up on all the insights and discussions here.

 

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Ticket offices and value in staff redeployment

December 3, 2024

“Cost pressures are bearing down on the rail industry. Revenue is rising, but not fast enough to cover the £2 billion gap between operating subsidy and income. How can the government move forward?”

Find out more from the Chair of the IRR in the latest RailReview article.

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Insights on Fares, Ticketing and Retail at the RIA Annual Conference

November 7, 2024

Today, Anthony Smith, Chair at IRR hosted the Ticketing panel at the annual Railway Industry Association conference, bringing together Mark Plowright, Divya Prashanth, Martin Howell and Stewart Fox-Mills from across the rail sector to discuss the future of fares, ticketing, and retail.

The panel explored key issues in the rail retail sector, including the need for more flexible, customer-friendly pricing models, accessibility and the ongoing digital transformation of ticketing services.

A huge thank you to all the panelists for their valuable contributions, and to Railway Industry Association for facilitating this conversation.

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IRR’s response to the Autumn Budget 2024

October 30, 2024

Anthony Smith, Chair at Independent Rail Retailers said:

“Now more than ever, passengers are seeking the best value for their money. Here at Independent Rail Retailers, our members work to make travel more affordable and convenient.”

“Choose an independent rail retailer to find the best ticket options for your journey.”

Find out more about how third-party rail retailers help both passengers and Britain’s rail industry, delivering greater value and choice across the board here.

 

 

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Steering rail to a prosperous future

August 27, 2024

With no need for government funding, independent rail retailers could generate significant additional revenue for the railways.

Read more in the latest edition of Passenger Transport, where Chair of the IRR, Anthony Smith dives into the role of independent rail retailers.

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