The latest edition of Rail Professional features an in-depth interview with RS Clare’s Managing Director, David Meadows. David is the sixth generation of the Meadows family to lead the company.

He shares how his early interest in the family business led to a career grounded in chemical engineering, global experience and a passion for innovation. Since joining RS Clare in 2016, he’s helped drive the company’s success in rail, building on a heritage that stretches back to 1748.

With over 50 years of specialist experience in rail lubricants, RS Clare continues to set the standard in high-performance, environmentally friendly products. From curved rail greases and fishplate lubricants to cutting-edge top of rail materials, RS Clare delivers complete friction management solutions.

In the interview, David highlights some of the company’s proudest achievements – from early breakthroughs with British Rail and London Underground to recent innovations in the US freight market, where RS Clare’s all-season grease has simplified logistics and cut costs for major operators.

Looking ahead, the company’s green strategy remains central. As David puts it, “The innovations we’ve made mean networks no longer have to sacrifice performance to go green.” By combining intelligent onboard systems, remote monitoring, and EU EcoLabel-certified products, RS Clare is helping rail operators cut waste, reduce noise and wear, and meet rising sustainability standards.

RS Clare sees new regulatory frameworks like Great British Railways as an opportunity to unify infrastructure and rolling stock friction strategies, pushing the UK forward in a space where others, like Germany, already lead.

With an eye on big data, automation, and AI-powered maintenance, RS Clare continues to innovate for a safer, greener, and more efficient rail industry.

You can read the full interview with David Meadows in Rail Professional here: