QTS’ acquisition of REL in the summer of 2021 has seen REL transform from a specialist Tier 2 subcontractor into one of the leading OLE tier contractors for Network Rail and light rail sector, resulting in significant growth and diversification across its workforce to better serve the rail industry.

Since joining the QTS Group, REL’s headcount has increased by 83% to help support this growth, with the team expected to grow even further in the coming year.

New additions include programme manager Francis Miller, joining from Alstom to lead the recently awarded Western and Wales OLE/E&P Framework. Alan Donnelly, new professional head for OLE, joins from the ambitious Glass Project, Saudi Arabia.  A key appointment comes also in the form of promotion for Ross Dickson who will step up to be project manager, overseeing the company’s latest framework win for Midland Metro and now leads REL’s light rail portfolio.

REL, in partnership with AmcoGiffen and QTS as ARQ, has recently won the Western and Wales framework to oversee the electrification upgrades between Paddington Station and Cardiff. Additionally, the company has secured contracts with Midland Metro, Siemens, and Edinburgh Tram for emergency response and remedial work, achieved success in the Scotland Electrification PQQ, and received an extension to its framework on the Elizabeth Line for TFL.

Andy Steel, MD of QTS Group, said: “Our partnership with REL has been instrumental in driving our growth and success over the past three years. We are proud of what we have accomplished together and are excited about the future possibilities as we continue to lead innovation for the rail construction industry.”

Scott Kernachan, MD of REL, added: “Collaborating with QTS Group has been a rewarding experience. Their longstanding reputation for quality and innovation has enabled us to achieve remarkable growth together and we look forward to building on this in our continued partnership.”