GB Railfreight secures two-year contract with Imerys to transport Cornish China Clay

GB Railfreight (GBRf) has secured a two-year contract with Imerys to transport china clay from local Cornish rail sites to Fowey Docks and Cliffe Vale in Staffordshire, reinforcing its commitment to growing rail freight in the South West of England. Kaolin, mined in Cornwall, is a critical raw material used in a wide range of products including paper, cosmetics, paint and pharmaceuticals. It has been a significant industry in Cornwall for centuries.

Moving freight by rail improves road safety, eases congestion and reduces wear and tear, in particular on rural roads.

Carl Kent, Sales Director at GB Railfreight, said: “We are pleased to enter into this agreement with Imerys, supporting the movement of critical local volumes and reinforcing our ambition to grow rail freight in the South West. We look forward to delivering our market‑leading service to Imerys for at least the next two years.”

“In addition to transporting kaolin, we provide seasonal treatment services to help keep the rail network operating reliably for both passenger and freight services, including Belmond’s Britannic Explorer, across the region. This will see an increased number of ‘blue’ trains operating from 2026 and beyond in the area.”

“Looking ahead, we see strong growth opportunities in emerging markets in the South West and are committed to being the leading rail freight operator in the region”.