Kim Johnson MP explores rail innovation at RS Clare

30 January 2025

Kim Johnson MP recently visited Liverpool based RS Clare, the specialist manufacturer of advanced lubricants and high-performance greases to multiple industries including the railways. The visit was part of the Railway Industry Association’s (RIA) Rail Fellowship Programme, an initiative designed to give politicians a deeper understanding of the work of companies across the UK rail supply chain.

During the visit, the Liverpool Riverside MP gained insight into RS Clare’s investment in innovative products and application equipment which support the rail industry. She also heard how the company’s acquisition of Swiss based rail lubrication firm Igralub in 2023 was transforming the business and its ability to meet the evolving needs of the rail sector across the UK.

The MP also toured the Liverpool site and facilities including the Technical Centre and laboratory, where she saw the company’s cutting-edge research and development processes. Mrs Johnson met employees from across the business shared details of RS Clare’s ongoing projects and future investment plans.

Kim Johnson MP said: "I was thrilled to visit RS Clare, a cornerstone of Liverpool’s industrial heritage and one of the city’s oldest firms, with 277 years of history. What stood out to me was their impressive ability to blend tradition with innovation, creating cutting-edge products that meet the demands of a rapidly evolving rail industry. Their forward-thinking approach reflects a deep understanding of the need to adapt and thrive in changing times. After an insightful and detailed tour, I have every confidence that RS Clare will remain a vital part of Liverpool’s economy, driving progress, creating jobs, and contributing to our city’s prosperity for generations to come".

David Meadows, Managing Director at RS Clare said: “We were delighted to welcome Kim Johnson MP and James McGowan, RIA to our Liverpool facility today and showcase the hard work, investments and innovation driving our success in the rail industry. Their visit highlights the importance of collaboration between business and Government to drive growth and opportunity within the rail sector.”

Ross Walker Business Engagement Manager at RIA North said: “Today’s visit is a reminder of the superb innovation and research and development across the UK rail supply chain. RS Clare’s long-term investment in jobs and skills supports growth not just in Liverpool and the North West of England but their products and applications help deliver a better performing railway across the UK.’

Notes to Editors

For further information on the RIA Fellowship Programme please contact [email protected]
About RIA: The Railway Industry Association (RIA) champions a dynamic UK rail supply sector. We help to grow a sustainable, and high-performing railway as well as promoting UK rail expertise and products to international markets. RIA has over 400 companies in membership in an industry which contributes £43 billion in economic growth and £14 billion in tax revenue each year, as well as employing 710,000 people. It is also a foundation sector for the UK’s economy which supports sustainable investment and jobs in towns and communities across the UK; for every £1 spent in rail, £2.50 is generated in the wider economy. RIA’s membership is active across the whole of railway supply, covering a diverse range of products and services and including both multi-national companies and SMEs (60% by number). www.riagb.org.uk
About RS Clare: RS Clare is dedicated to helping our customers operate more efficiently, sustainably, and profitably by delivering high-performance, lubrication solutions. With over 275 years of experience, we are a global leader in industrial lubrication, serving a wide range of industries, including Oil & Gas, Rail, Marine, and Road Infrastructure. Our customers face a multitude of challenges - from extreme environmental conditions and stringent regulations to the demands of maintaining smooth and reliable operations. We understand that unplanned downtime, equipment wear, and environmental impact can significantly disrupt performance and profitability. That’s why we work closely with our clients to solve these critical problems, delivering products that protect assets, extend equipment life, reduce operational costs, and create overall lifetime value. At RS Clare, we believe in the power of collaboration. Our approach is not just about providing products, we partner with our customers to deliver valuable solutions backed by our innovation and technical expertise. Our world-class customer service ensures that we are always aligned with their goals, whether our customers aim to enhance safety and durability or minimise their carbon footprint, we offer cutting-edge products designed to maximise productivity and ensure success. www.rsclare.com/