Interview: Anthony Smith speaks to Rail Professional about the future of rail retail

February 27, 2025

“With the announcement that Great British Railways is going to be selling its own tickets, the future for the retail market is going to be very competitive and consumer-focused. It’s going to be led by the quality of service that any provider can give to consumers, which I think will be very good for passengers because they’re going to have a choice.”

Read more from our chair Anthony Smith in latest issue of Rail Professional where he explores how digital innovation, changing consumer behaviour, and new governance structures are reshaping ticket sales across Britain’s railways.

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Rail reform: What do passengers want?

February 26, 2025

The way we buy train tickets in Britain is changing. With the government pressing ahead with rail reform, now is the time to ask: what do passengers actually want?

Find out more from our Chair, Anthony Smith in the latest issue of Passenger Transport.

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IRR welcomes GBR’s next step in rail reform

February 18, 2025

Independent Rail Retailers welcome this long-awaited step towards rail reform and the Government’s commitment to working with the private retail sector to create a fair, competitive market that delivers better value for passengers and taxpayers.

The Government rightly acknowledges the innovation and investment that the private sector brings and the role it has already played in driving growth and encouraging more people to choose rail. However, for this legislation to succeed, it must guarantee a genuine level playing field where all retailers – public and private – can compete fairly under non-discriminatory conditions. This will be crucial to delivering real benefits for passengers, taxpayers, and the wider rail industry.

We look forward to engaging closely on the details to ensure the future retailing model delivers the best outcomes for passengers and the wider industry.

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Omio Joins Independent Rail Retailers

February 3, 2025

Independent Rail Retailers (IRR) are pleased to announce Omio as the latest addition to its growing network of members. Omio is a recognised leader in the travel sector, offering an innovative platform that simplifies global travel planning by providing a single platform for rail, bus/coaches, ferries, flights and air bookings.

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Berlin, Omio connects passengers with over 1,000 transportation providers worldwide, offering seamless access to trains, flights, coaches, ferries, car rentals, and airport transfers.

This partnership underscores IRR’s ongoing commitment to supporting independent rail retailers that prioritise delivering value, convenience, and a seamless travel experience to passengers in Britain.

Anthony Smith, Chair of Independent Rail Retailers said: 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Omio to the IRR network. Our members share a common goal of improving travel for passengers by making it more accessible, efficient, and affordable. We look forward to collaborating with Omio to drive growth and boost revenue across the rail industry.”

Catriona Meehan, Public Affairs Director at Omio, said: 

“We’re excited to join Independent Rail Retailers and its diverse members in our shared mission to improve Britain’s rail travel. Together, we aim to deliver innovative solutions, affordable ticket prices, and an outstanding travel experience.”

Omio now joins a diverse and dynamic group of independent retailers dedicated to providing passengers with access to the best rail fares, services, and solutions.

For more information about IRR and its members, please visit: www.independentrailretailers.co.uk/who-we-are

 

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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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