NATIONAL RAILWAY SUPPLIES

THE SITUATION

NRS is a major distributor of a wide range of equipment to the railway industry. In the post-privatisation business environment; competitiveness, speed of supply and quality are essential elements in maintaining the company's leadership. However, its cable supplier experience has meant encountering firms who, unrealistically, try to provide every cable for every purpose.

THE SOLUTION

Elmeridge is a supplier of specialist cables to NRS for a number of rail applications. There are two noteworthy recent examples. Firstly, cables made from special compounds (to meet Railtrack's demanding standards for adverse conditions) which are used in points heating. Secondly, coaxials for cameras monitoring level crossing traffic flow, replacing fibre-optics which were unsatisfactory (in this case, Elmeridge were the only available supplier of the older coaxial technology).

THE RESULT

The key to meeting the requirements of NRS was to focus single-mindedly on each correct solution, rather than a quick-fix from existing stock. Despite the specialist nature of these and other cables supplied by Elmeridge, often sourced outside the UK, the diagnosis, ordering and delivery cycles are completed on schedule. NRS's Signalling Contracts Manager commented, "We have a good relationship with Elmeridge who really do understand and support our position in a highly competitive industry."