HS2 has a rapidly expanding supply chain that is supporting jobs, investment and economic growth at a pivotal time for the economy. 2,760 businesses have delivered work on the project so far, with 96% of contracts being awarded to UK-based businesses.

One example is GCN Tipperhire Ltd, who began their HS2 journey as a two-man team transporting aggregate materials to HS2 construction sites. The company now plays a key role in HS2’s drive to reduce carbon emissions, by collecting materials from HS2’s railheads and transporting them the final mile to construction sites in Warwickshire and Northamptonshire.

In November 2021, Paul Heard and Gary Niblett, who co-own the business, were running operations with just two tipper trucks and two operatives. The sheer volume of work they have been awarded by HS2’s construction partner, EKFB, has now enabled them to expand their workforce, from two staff to 10, and acquire six new state-of-the-art vehicles – all in just a year.

Paul Heard, co-owner of GCN Tipper Hire Ltd said:

“Our rapid expansion is all down to the contracts we’ve been awarded working on HS2. Not only is this helping our small business to thrive, but it also means we’ve been able to employ more local people, which is a welcome boost for the area.

 “We’ve invested in the most carbon-efficient lorries on the market, as we know this stands us in good stead to help HS2 reach its Net-Zero carbon aim. We’re proud to be playing a part in Britain’s new railway, and we’re challenging ourselves to become even cleaner and greener in the future by going all-electric.”