At LKE UK Ltd, we recently had the opportunity to deliver a bespoke handling equipment solution into one of the UK’s busiest transport hubs — King’s Cross Station, London.
Working closely with a leading rail catering firm based underground at the station, our goal was to design and supply a safe, efficient, and high-capacity logistics system to support daily food and beverage operations. With thousands of passengers boarding every day, and limited time to purchase refreshments before departure, onboard catering services are under more pressure than ever to deliver fresh, high-quality food directly to passengers.
The Challenge: Efficient Logistics in a Confined Underground Space
Operating below ground presents a unique logistics challenge. Catering teams must move aluminium food carts from underground storage and picking areas up onto the station platform, before loading them safely onto trains.
The process needs to balance speed, safety, and security — keeping goods protected from public areas while ensuring passengers remain safe during loading operations.
Our Solution: Increasing Capacity and Improving Safety
The aim of this project was to increase the number of food carts moved per journey while improving operational safety and user experience.
Our engineering team designed and built a bespoke cart trailer capable of transporting eight aluminium food carts per run — a 33% increase from the previous six. The trailer works seamlessly with a MasterMover electric tug, allowing operators to safely tow the carts to the platform and position them alongside the train. Once in place, the ramp is lowered, and the carts are smoothly rolled onboard.
The efficiency gain is clear:
- +2 carts per journey (from 6 to 8)
- ~10 minutes saved per cycle
- Enhanced safety and security, thanks to a fully enclosed design that replaces the previous open-frame system.
The new solution not only improves throughput but also delivers a stronger visual presence — a robust, secure product that you simply can’t miss on the platform.
Collaboration That Drives Innovation
This project is a great example of how LKE UK’s handling equipment works hand-in-hand with MasterMover’s electric towing technology to deliver smart, ergonomic, and sustainable logistics solutions — even in the most niche industry environments, like rail catering operations.
We’re proud to support the UK’s growing rail infrastructure sector, helping streamline supply chains, enhance safety, and reduce manual handling in challenging environments.
Learn More
You can now find LKE UK Ltd on Rail-Suppliers.com — connecting with new partners, contractors, and operators across the UK rail industry.
If you’re looking to optimise your logistics or handling systems — whether in rail, airports, or manufacturing — get in touch with our team to discuss a tailored solution for your operation.
Contact us today to learn how LKE UK can help move your operation forward.
