North East Manufacturer Secures Multi-million Pound Contract with Hitachi Rail Europe

CONSETT, August 14, 2013 – Hitachi Rail Europe Ltd. announced that it has signed a preferred contractor agreement with specialist glass manufacturer Romag, based in County Durham, to supply glass for the Class 800/801 trains for the Intercity Express Programme.

Both companies aim to reach close of the long-term build and support contract shortly, enabling Romag to immediately launch the necessary design and development work. Delivery of the windows will start in spring 2014, securing high quality jobs in the region with a potential to create additional capacity when supplying at full volume.

Phil Murray, Managing Director of Romag, said: “We are delighted to have signed the preferred contractor agreement with Hitachi Rail Europe and look forward to working closely as a trusted supplier in the coming years.  

“Romag has dedicated considerable resources to developing our bespoke build and support offer to the rail industry. We have experienced significant growth in this market, despite the economic downturn, and with over 70 years specialist glazing experience we are well placed to deliver contracts such as this to both Hitachi and other train builders.”   

Based in Consett, Romag is only a short drive from Newton Aycliffe, where construction of Hitachi Rail Europe’s new train factory will start at the end of this year.

Keith Jordan, Managing Director of Hitachi Rail Europe said: “Among the many supplier contracts we have now signed with British-based companies, Romag is situated most closely to our new train factory in Newton Aycliffe. We are delighted that we are working with local companies that can supply to the high quality requirements we need to build highly reliable, comfortable trains for the UK in the UK.”

Jamie Foster, Procurement Director, Hitachi Rail Europe, said: “Hitachi has always been very clear that only companies that can meet our high quality standards while offering a competitive cost will be selected to supply to the Class 800/801 trains. Romag have consistently demonstrated their commitment to that request. And as a result I am happy for us to show our commitment to them through this award.”

Mr Murray added: “This award demonstrates that North East manufacturing can compete successfully in today’s global market.  We faced fierce competition for this contract and our success is testament to the skills and dedication of the workforce here in Consett.  This will provide Romag with a solid platform on which we can build future success.”

Now part of Gentoo Group, Romag specialises in security glass for the transport market and ‘high impact’ glass for the rail industry. It is one of the UK’s leading independent glass processors and is trusted worldwide by leading organisations to deliver high quality, reliable glazing solutions designed to meet customer’s specific requirements.

Romag has been processing glass in its factory in County Durham in the North of England since 1943 and employs around 100 highly skilled staff.

- End -