Network Rail has published its plan of action for working more effectively and closely with small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs), including by listening better to businesses.

The plan also considers how Network Rail will achieve the Government target of spending 33% of its annual expenditure via SMEs by 2022.

In its plan, Network Rail ( www.networkrail.co.uk) says it recognises the importance of SMEs to Britain’s local communities and economy, with SMEs providing around 16 million jobs nation-wide.

“The new action plan is designed to create a more mutually beneficial partnership, with Network Rail benefitting from the business community’s adaptability and innovation.”

The plan focuses on six areas of improvement — engagement, pre-procurement, procurement, contract management, supplier management and innovation — and is in response to feedback from focus groups with SMEs and engagement with working groups.

These groups include the Rail Industry Association, the Railway Industry Contractors Association, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association, the Rail Safety & Standards Board, Midlands Rail Forum, the Department for Transport and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

As well as continued working and focus groups, there will be future ‘Meet the Buyers’ events to increase face-to-face discussions with suppliers.

Ken Blackley, commercial director at Network Rail, said: “The SME action plan is an excellent opportunity to build on what we’ve learnt from speaking to businesses in our supply chain and listening when they tell us we haven’t always got it right.

"The steps we are taking will make us easier to do business with, from simplifying our processes and providing clarity on what we want from suppliers, to better supplier management, clearer sourcing pipelines and a move away from zero-value frameworks.”