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STAR Capital acquires Rail Operations (UK) Limited, which has subsequently entered into a framework agreement with Stadler for the supply of thirty Class 93 tri-mode locomotives

14 January 2021

STAR Capital Partnership LLP (“STAR Capital” or “STAR”), a leading European fund manager is pleased to announce that it has made an investment in Rail Operations (UK) Limited (“ROUK” or the “Group”), a leading provider of rolling stock movement and storage services to the UK rail industry through its subsidiaries Rail Operations Group Limited (“ROG”) and Rail Operations (Rolling Stock Management) Limited (“Traxion”). In addition, ROUK has established a new subsidiary, Orion, to provide high speed logistics and express freight services, focused on accelerating modal shift from air/road to rail by offering a fast, cost effective and environmentally-friendly solution. STAR will acquire a majority stake in the Group, alongside existing management. Neil Bennett, a highly-experienced rail industry professional, will be appointed Executive Chairman of ROUK as part of the transaction.

STAR looks forward to working closely with ROUK’s seasoned management on new opportunities to accelerate growth in each of the Group’s subsidiaries, ROG, Traxion and Orion. STAR has a successful track record in value generation and driving growth, typically investing in asset-based companies holding a strong strategic market position. STAR’s investment in ROUK builds on its previous investments in rail-transport, Eversholt Rail Group in the UK and Abellio GmbH in Germany.

Additionally, ROUK is delighted to announce that it has signed a framework agreement for the supply of thirty Class 93 tri-mode locomotives. An initial batch of 10 locomotives are due for delivery in early 2023. The Class 93 is a versatile, state-of-the-art, high-speed locomotive, purpose-built for the modern rail network and operating freight services. It will be the first tri-mode locomotive in the UK capable of operating on both electrified lines and non-electrified lines, which will support rail decarbonisation requirements.

Commenting on the deal and the framework agreement, Karl Watts, Chief Executive Officer of ROUK, said “We are thrilled to partner with an investor of STAR’s stature to accelerate our growth and expand into new activities. The growth capital from STAR will enable the Group to widen its service offering and cement further its reputation as a high-quality, safety-focused solutions provider to our customers. The Class 93 fleet with its array of green credentials, will allow ROUK to lead the way in supporting the rail industry deliver its decarbonisation targets. Furthermore, with its impressive state-of-the-art specification, the Class 93s also allow us to develop new markets and modernise many aspects of UK train operations”.

Neil Bennett, incoming Executive Chairman said “I have enormous respect for what Karl Watts and Dave Burley have achieved in a relatively short space of time with ROUK. Working with Karl and Dave provides an excellent opportunity to combine our skills and networks as the business continues its rapid growth trajectory. STAR’s pedigree in rail means that we can take the business to the next level, backed by an investor who understands the industry and shares our vision for ROUK”.

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STAR Capital Partnership LLP

15th Floor, 33 Cavendish Square
London W1G 0PW
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)20 7016 8500
e-mail: mail@star-capital.com

Important Notice: we have become aware that an organisation with a similar name has been targeting individuals in the UK through unsolicited calls to make cryptocurrency investments. Our firm, STAR Capital Partnership LLP, does not engage in this type of activity.  Please see here for information on how to protect yourself from financial fraud and, if you have fallen victim to it, please report it to the UK Financial Conduct Authority by telephone or email: https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/protect-yourself-scams.