The rail industry is powered by the innovation, specialist expertise and agility that sits within micro-businesses and SMEs. Many of these organisations are delivering highly specialised services, new technologies and innovative solutions, yet gaining visibility and access to the wider industry can often be a challenge.

The Railway Club Village creates a space where smaller businesses aren't on the edge of the exhibition, but at the centre of conversation - helping smaller suppliers get seen, get known, and get connected with the wider rail industry.

What is it?

The Railway Club Village is a new feature launching at Rail LIVE 2026, created specifically for micro businesses, SMEs and specialist suppliers working across the rail sector.

Located at M170, the Village will bring smaller businesses together in a shared, conversation-led exhibition space designed to encourage collaboration, discovery and meaningful connections.

Rather than a traditional stand-only format, the Village will create a more open environment where visitors can meet new suppliers, explore fresh ideas and connect with businesses bringing practical innovation to the industry.

Why visit?

Whether you are looking for new suppliers, fresh thinking or practical solutions from emerging rail businesses, the Railway Club Village is designed to make discovery easier. Visitors will:

  • Meet innovative micro businesses and SMEs
  • Discover specialist suppliers from across the rail sector
  • Explore new products, services and ideas
  • Connect with businesses looking to grow within rail
  • Join practical conversations around industry access, procurement and growth

What's on?

Practical insight sessions

Alongside the exhibition space, the Railway Club Village will host speaker sessions and open discussions focused on helping businesses navigate, enter and grow within the rail sector.

Planned discussion areas include:

  • entering the rail industry supply chain
  • understanding Tier 1 contractor procurement processes
  • scaling a business within the rail sector
  • certification, compliance and industry standards
  • navigating the Product Approval process

Full session details can be found below.

The Big Railway Bash 2.0

Following the success of The Big Railway Bash in 2025, The Railway Club will also host The Big Railway Bash 2.0 after Day 1 of the event. 

Taking place on 17 June 2026 at Swans Nest, Stratford-upon-Avon, the event will bring the rail community together for an evening of networking, music and celebration

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Programming - Sessions

Speaker Schedule

Programming - Evening Event

Evening Schedule
BBQ Menu
Please note: the Railway Club operates independently from Rail LIVE, and the Big Railway Bash 2.0 is not officially associated with Rail LIVE.