Train Bits & More (TBM) in Crewe has celebrated ten years supporting UK train operators with balloons, cakes and a growing order book.<\/p>\n
The passenger comfort specialist supports rail fleets with services aimed at improving carriage conditions for travellers.<\/p>\n
Seat covers are cleaned, toilet systems maintained, electrical charging sockets installed and nylon coatings are added to grab poles and seat handles to improve passenger facilities.<\/p>\n
The company was formed in 2009 by Neil Smith and Andy Hawker who have rail and engineering experience between them.<\/p>\n
Neil served as an apprentice at British Rail Engineering Limited (BREL) in the late 80s and witnessed a fast-changing industry as privatisation transformed how the UK railways were operated.<\/p>\n
He said: \u201cI saw how the rail industry changed and identified ways we could support train operators with services that help them keep standards high for passengers.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have grown from just a few people ten years ago to a team of 15 at Crewe, with an additional 30 contractors working with us at depots around the country.<\/p>\n
\u201cBecause we operate for our Crewe base or at customer facilities around the country we can offer the train operators real flexibility so they can respond to requirements as they arise.\u201d<\/p>\n
As well as ongoing work across the UK rail network, TBM has recently signed a five-year deal to support new fleets of Hitachi trains in the UK.<\/p>\n