Private equity firm Frontier Development Capital (FDC) has exited its investment in Harry Needle Railroad Company, based in Chesterfield and Worksop, which has been acquired by Austrian contractor Swietelsky for an eight-figure sum. Founded in 1999 by Harry Needle, the company specializes in locomotive hire, storage, and maintenance. The deal allows Needle to realize his majority stake while continuing as managing director. The acquisition expands Swietelsky’s UK operations, adding a significant facility in Worksop. Since acquiring a derelict depot in 2019, Harry Needle Railroad has grown its turnover by 600%, employing around 30 staff and offering services to major rail manufacturers.