Independent Rail Retailers has published its response to the Government’s consultation on rail reform, “A Railway Fit for Britain’s future”, with a clear call to put passengers first.

Independent Rail Retailers (IRR) has welcomed the Government’s commitment to work with the private retail sector to deliver better value and choice for passengers and taxpayers as part of its rail reform plans.

IRR’s members are calling for regulatory safeguards in ticket retailing before the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), to ensure passengers continue to benefit from the innovation, choice and value that independent retailers have delivered over the past 20 years, including e-tickets and split ticketing.

In its response to the consultation, IRR has urged the government to create a level playing field in rail retailing, highlighting the need for fair and transparent governance, a commercial structure that facilitates investment, and non-discriminatory conditions to encourage competition.

Many of these principles have been echoed by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), whose own consultation response also emphasised the need for safeguards to reduce the opportunities and incentives for self-preferencing by GBR.

Anthony Smith, Chair at Independent Rail Retailers said:

“The Government acknowledges the innovation and investment that independent retailers bring – and the role they have already played in driving growth and encouraging more people to choose rail. Independent retailers generate £5bn annually on just 4.5% commission, offering exceptional value to the rail industry.

It is crucial – now more than ever – to ensure a fair, open, and competitive retail market for all retailers, public and private alike. A genuine level playing field is critical for continued innovation, growth, and better outcomes for passengers and taxpayers – and for the rail industry to truly succeed in the years ahead.”