The award-winning open-access operator, Hull Trains, is becoming accustomed to industry acknowledgement of its performance and service, but this week the rail company has raised the bar further with a massive four shortlistings in a string of coveted industry nominations. 

The Rail Business Awards are the industry’s most long-standing and respected rail awards. Hull Trains are in the running for the prestigious Train Operator of the Year award as well as the esteemed Rolling Stock Excellence award for their commitment to innovation and on-board benefits for passengers. 

The company is also a finalist in the UK Rail Industry Awards, in recognition of its “exceptional collaborative relations” with train operators Grand Central and Great Western Railway and fleet owner Angel Trains to improve the reliability and performance of their Class 180 fleet. Over the course of the project, Hull Trains’ performance, punctuality and safety record has improved by 41%, with a combined improvement between the three operators of 80%.   

Jon Plowright, Head of Engineering at Hull Trains says: "This has been an ongoing initiative over three years which has benefited all parties involved. Angel Trains, which owns the fleet now has a better performing train and Hull Trains, Grand Central and Great Western Railway have all achieved record levels of passenger satisfaction as a result of the improved availability and reliability of the trains." 

The company is also shortlisted for its involvement in an industry trial to roll-out the UK’s very first on-board information screens fed by live real-time train running information. 

Will Dunnett, managing director of Hull Trains said: “To be shortlisted for just one award is brilliant but we are delighted to be shortlisted for four, especially those that recognise the excellent performance of our fleet and the ways that we are delivering some of the very best customer service in the industry. To receive this level of recognition for our people is fantastic.” 

Winners of the awards will be announced at ceremonies in London in February 2016.