Grab your name badge, breakfast and start your networking early.

Ross is not just a budget-holder—he’s a decision-maker who shapes procurement strategy, sets the tone for supplier collaboration, and unlocks future market opportunities. His keynote will provide critical insight into upcoming investment pipelines, the standards and innovations Network Rail expects from its partners, and how suppliers can align to secure a role in the transformation of Scotland’s rail infrastructure.

How do cities justify major transit extensions in a tight funding climate? Deborah Paton sets out Edinburgh’s approach to the tram expansion business case for a potential North-South route - linking demand, land use & regeneration, decarbonisation, and inclusive growth.

As a trailblazing open-access operator, Lumo has been shaking up long-distance rail since 2021—delivering affordable, all-electric services between Edinburgh and London on the East Coast with a bold, customer-focused approach. With 96% customer satisfaction and a mission to shift more journeys from road and air to rail, Lumo is proving that smart, sustainable travel doesn’t need to come at a premium. Now preparing to launch new services between Stirling and London on the West Coast next Spring, Lumo are opening up exciting opportunities for collaboration across the rail supply chain. Join this live panel to understand how suppliers can plug into one of rail’s most agile and forward-thinking operators, and help shape the future of affordable, sustainable, and customer-centric travel across Scotland and beyond.

In their joint keynote, Keira McLuskey and David Harkin will explore how Network Rail Scotland is aligning sustainability and climate resilience as the twin pillars of a future-ready rail infrastructure. From strategy to delivery, they will reveal how environmental goals—such as biodiversity enhancement and net-zero material reuse—are being seamlessly integrated with climate adaptation measures, including flood-proof assets and resilience-driven renewals. This session will spotlight supplier opportunities to contribute to circular material systems, climate-resilient infrastructure, and cross-sector initiatives like the Climate‑Ready Infrastructure Forum. For the supply chain, this is a must-attend session offering a first-hand look at upcoming procurement priorities, with a clear call for innovation in low-carbon materials, digital climate-risk tools, and sustainable design solutions.

Building a credible, fundable investment pipeline is pivotal to unlocking outcomes that matter to government—productivity, regional growth, decarbonisation, resilience, and better passenger/customer experiences. Katie Vollbracht will unpack how Network Rail structures its investment pipeline end-to-end: from strategic need and optioneering through to assurance, prioritisation, and market engagement. The session translates policy objectives into practical portfolio decisions, showing how to balance affordability, deliverability, and benefits realisation while maintaining transparency for stakeholders and supply chains.

Mark plays a pivotal role in keeping Scotland’s railway running smoothly. In this session, he will share how ScotRail is responding to evolving passenger expectations, climate challenges, and service pressures—and why strong, proactive collaboration with the supply chain is essential to delivering consistent, high-quality outcomes. Whether it’s rolling stock support, digital tools for real-time operations, or station and depot enhancements, Mark will spotlight the key areas where supplier expertise and innovation are vital.

Grab a coffee, mid morning snack and a fist full of business cards during the first networking opportunity of the day.

This high-impact panel brings together leaders in rail operations, human performance, safety regulation, and technology to explore how the industry can recognise, reduce, and ultimately prevent fatigue-related risks. Understanding fatigue: The physiological and operational factors driving fatigue in rail environments Lessons from the field: Case studies where fatigue contributed to incidents—and what was learned Tech-driven solutions: From biometric monitoring to AI-powered scheduling tools Policy and culture: Embedding fatigue awareness into safety protocols and leadership mindsets Collaborative action: How operators, regulators, and suppliers can work together to build a safer, more resilient network

Join us for an inspiring session where young apprentices share what drew them to the rail industry, what they love about their roles, and why they see a future in rail. Hear firsthand how real-world impact, innovation, and career progression are driving the next generation—and what the industry must do to attract and retain more young talent.

Terri will present a case on the opportunities Nuclear Transport Solutions are bringing to Scotland and the case for continued investment in rail freight.

Scotland stands at a crossroads in its transport future—and rail freight is emerging as a cornerstone of its strategy for decarbonisation, connectivity, and competitiveness. This panel discussion brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and logistics experts to explore how rail freight can meet Scotland’s ambitious climate goals while driving economic resilience. Despite recent declines in freight volumes and infrastructure challenges, the Scottish Government has set a bold target: an 8.7% increase in net tonne kilometres by 2029, equivalent to removing 35,000 lorry journeys from the roads annually. This is backed by up to £25 million in dedicated funding through the Scottish Rail Freight Fund and a £4.2 billion infrastructure investment via Network Rail’s CP7 plan.

Join Chris as he provides insight into TransPennine Express’s forward programme across Scottish routes, including decarbonisation efforts, digital service improvements, and infrastructure interfaces with Network Rail and local authorities. Most importantly, Chris will outline the pivotal role the supply chain plays in delivering success—from civil engineering and fleet upgrades to digital systems and customer experience innovation—highlighting where future collaboration and commercial opportunities lie.

Grab your lunch, talk to the speakers about how you can help with their challenges and network with new customers.

This panel will explore the strategic, technical, and policy dimensions of Scotland’s journey toward a net-zero rail network. We’re bringing together leaders from across the sector to share insights, challenge assumptions, and inspire action. This is not just a conversation—it's a call to action. Expect bold ideas, real-world case studies, and a candid look at the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Begin the evening by connecting with peers in a relaxed setting.

Scotland Vs Greece - World Cup Qualifier LIVE & Dinner

Enjoy a three-course meal accompanied by wine while engaging in meaningful conversations with industry professionals.