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Russell Group to buy Freightliner’s Coatbridge terminal – updated

[ April 15, 2024   //   ]

Russell Group’s John G Russell arm is to acquire Freightliner’s Coatbridge Intermodal Rail Terminal near Glasgow and will set up a new entity, Russell RailRoad.

The site is next to John G Russell’s own Coatbridge base. The two locations will be run as separate entities but services will be combined to ensure synergy and efficiency wherever possible.

It says that Russell RailRoad will leverage its strategic location and combined expertise to offer sustainable, efficient, and customer-centric logistics solutions.

Russell Group chief executive, Alan Poulton said: “Acquiring Freightliner’s Coatbridge site unlocks many new supply chain opportunities for our company’s future. Integrating this strategic asset into our intermodal network expands our network, offering customers increased connectivity and faster deliveries across more diverse routes and destinations. This enhanced efficiency goes hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility, enabling us to significantly reduce emissions and support both the company’s and our customers’ sustainability objectives by shifting freight from road to rail.”

Russell Group chairman, John G Russell added: ” This landmark move furthers our 45-year legacy in rail freight, aligning seamlessly with our commitment to expand eco-friendly and far-reaching solutions for our valued customers. We warmly welcome our new colleagues to embark on a journey of collective innovation, growth, and mutual success.”

Russell Group which also includes the Carntyne Transport bulk logistics arm, now operates from 14 UK locations, employs 740 people and had a turnover of £88.9 million in 2023.

The terminal currently handles three Freightliner services to Southampton, London Gateway and Felixstowe, five days per week. Russell also contracts 12 weekly round trip services from Coatbridge to Daventry International Railfreight Terminal in partnership with DRS and a six day per week service from Blackford to Coatbridge for mineral water maker Highland Spring.

All will continue to run as currently but Russell will look to expand rail links to other locations combining both domestic and deep-sea traffic.

Freightliner said that, following a strategic review, it was recognised that the Coatbridge facility would be better served under new ownership. Managing director – intermodal logistics, Freightliner UK/Europe, Chris Lawrenson, said: “We are looking forward to continuing to work with the team at Russell Railroad. The Coatbridge terminal is essential for maintaining effective Intermodal connections into and out of Scotland and Russell Railroad’s new ownership of the terminal will ensure these services continue to run smoothly. We look forward to forging this partnership and continuing to serve the Scottish Intermodal market.”

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