Business Diversification
Client: Harsco
Linked Services:
Programme Management
Original Equipment Manufacturer Support
When Harsco won a new piece of business to expand their on-track machine fleet, they sought expertise to help successfully integrate the new acquisition.
Managing the introduction of new business activity
Having been awarded a new stoneblower contract with Network Rail, Harsco required guidance in finalising the agreement and working towards service deployment. Stoneblowers work by using pneumatic systems to inject ballast (rocks and other aggregate) under the horizontal supports (ties) of railway lines. They diagnose, index, sense and record levelling ,and use the data to ensure track position accuracy of 1mm. This important maintenance ensures the early identification and rectification of anomalies across the rail network, avoiding failures which would lead to wide disruption.
InnoRail managed the project of transitioning both machinery and staff from one operator to another, while overseeing the rollout of training for internal staff affected by the introduction of the new machine. Once the transition of the service ownership was complete, we supported Harsco to establish the service into a steady state of running, remaining on-hand to support with any challenges that may arise as it became business as usual.
The acquisition of the stoneblower contract gave Harsco a wider service offering across their fleet, which also includes a range of other surfacing equipment. These machines are intrinsic to the maintenance, improvement and smooth running of the UK rail network, and enable passenger, freight and charter and heritage operators continue their operations.
Our firsthand experience of operations and change management gave us the ability to guide Harsco throughout the process of adapting to their new acquisition and diversifying their product offering.
After a period of successful operation, Harsco then embarked on building their own stoneblowers, with a view to phase out and eventually replace the existing machinery. As they made this transition, InnoRail provided project management for the implementation of the new machines and phasing the old ones out of use. We worked closely with multiple departments within Harsco, coordinating the introduction of the new machines and helping to ensure a smooth transition. InnoRail’s approach is one of enabling our clients, helping them to navigate transitions with confidence that they can then build on, into the future.
Our repeated appointment by Harsco is an indication of the strong relationships which underpin our business. We take the time to fully understand business objectives and provide advice based on extensive experience and knowledge, resulting in us becoming a trusted partner for businesses as they undertake transformation for the future.
