GB RAILFREIGHT SIGNS LONG-TERM AGREEMENT WITH 7 STEEL UK

GB Railfreight (GBRf), the UK’s largest rail freight operator, has signed a new long-term agreement with 7 Steel UK that will see the company transport steel products to and from the manufacturer’s Cardiff operations for at least the next 11 years.

The agreement will see GBRf move scrap steel into 7 Steel UK’s Cardiff facilities and transport finished steel products to customers across the UK. It also extends the company’s existing on-site shunting activities, creating an integrated logistics solution that places rail at the heart of the steelmaker’s supply chain. Services are scheduled to commence in October 2026, with GBRf providing a combination of rail haulage and site operations to support the movement of materials and finished products.

GBRf has worked closely with 7 Steel UK for more than 15 years through its existing contract and this significantly expanded agreement further strengthens this relationship. It also broadens GBRf’s position within the steel sector which provides a platform for future growth whilst supporting the continued movement of freight by rail, helping improve safety and reduce congestion on the UK’s roads and lowering carbon emissions.

As part of its long-term commitment to the contract, GBRf will introduce two new sets of purpose-built scrap wagons during 2027, supporting operational efficiency and modernising the fleet serving the Cardiff operation. An additional set of specially modified wagons will also be provided that will be able to 7 Steel UK’s outbound finished goods of rebar and coiled steel.

Alex Kirk, Commercial Director at GB Railfreight, said: “This agreement is a significant milestone for GB Railfreight and we’re proud to be expanding our relationship with 7 Steel UK and supporting both the inbound movement of raw materials and the distribution of finished products across the country.

“The contract provides a strong foundation for future growth and demonstrates the important role rail freight continues to play in supporting UK industry. We’re looking forward to working closely with 7 Steel UK for many years to come and delivering the safe, reliable and efficient service our customer expects.”

Vorn O’Hennessy, Head of Supply Chain Management at 7 Steel UK, said: “This agreement strengthens our supply chain, supports more sustainable logistics and reflects our long-term commitment to steelmaking in Cardiff. We look forward to continuing our partnership with GB Railfreight to deliver reliable, efficient service for our customers across the UK”