The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT UK) is urging the government to simplify the current complex and difficult railways ticketing system by introducing a new and easy to understand scheme. The proposals come from industry experts, who have published a report titled Rail fares and ticketing – a blueprint for action. The report lead, Malcolm Pheasey FCILT, details how the industry can develop a new age in ticketing to help travellers get greater value for money with an easier to understand, and simpler to use, process.  

The report details how and why reforms are needed – as well as urging Government and industry to come together to tackle challenges and introduce a universal system.

Malcolm, a member of CILT’s Strategic Rail Policy Group, explained: "The current system is complicated and confusing – coupled with restrictions – none of which are easy to understand. To compound the problem, travellers must navigate different websites for different rail companies – often within the same area. We need the jargon to stop, ticketing systems to be simplified and a focus on single fare journeys. Our proposals make holistic changes to technology, ticket types and fares relationships to give simpler and easier to understand arrangements.

“This is all also about ensuring the British public get the best deal possible. In turn helping more people to leave their cars and instead opt to take trains – a win win for reducing pressure on roads and the environment.”

The report also has a focus on embracing more technology whilst not forgetting the more traditional ways of buying a ticket.

Malcolm added: “We know the sector is doing its best to keep up with tech, but we must move more quickly. We need to ensure users can buy tickets on their phones quickly and easily – hence the need for a clear and easy to understand system across the board. If we want the next generation to use more trains, we also need to make sure we keep aligned to the way consumers prefer to buy their goods and services.

“However, new tech does not mean we forget about the traditional ways of doing things. Those that have no access to technology may still want to buy tickets over the phone or in person so the industry must ensure it’s able to meet everyone’s needs.”

The report also details other ways the industry can reach these goals as well as steps for a long term vision – all of which can be found here: Rail fares and ticketing

Malcolm Pheasey has worked in the rail industry for over 50 years and now supports the CILT UK with advising and providing knowledge for the rail sector, alongside other industry experts.  

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) is the membership organisation for professionals leading supply chain operations for the movement of goods and people. Members of the Institute are involved in the management and design of infrastructure, systems, processes and information flows, and in the creation, management and continuous improvement of effective organisations. The work of our members adds value to people and society and directly impacts the environment, business profitability and economic growth. Learn more about CILT UK here: www.ciltuk.org.uk