2020–2025: The Five-Year Transformation of the M40

As part of Egis’s long-term asset management strategy, QMS was engaged to enhance the M40 motorway safety, sustainability and efficiency through innovative line marking solutions. Over five years, we applied our data-led expertise to rejuvenate 715,000 linear metres of markings. By deploying our flagship QMS HyperLine™ technology, we turned a routine maintenance contract into a showcase of safety and efficiency, targeting four specific goals:

• Maximising driver safety by ensuring visibility in all weather and lighting conditions.

• Decarbonising the network, slashing emissions during both installation and the asset’s lifecycle.

• Driving measurable efficiency, cutting costs while optimising long-term maintenance.

• Enabling data-led decisions using QMS LifeLine™ surveys for precise asset mapping.

Our Solution

We implemented three game-changing strategies that transformed the project delivery. First, 12C traffic management systems eliminated the need for static lane closures, keeping traffic flowing smoothly while work progressed. Second, we replaced traditional hot thermoplastic with HyperLine™, a cold-applied, solvent-free acrylic that created a safer working environment while delivering superior durability and carbon efficiency. Finally, automated spray controls reduced manual handling by 90%, dramatically improving worker safety and installation consistency.

The Results

The environmental impact exceeded all expectations. By switching to cold-applied materials, we reduced CO2 emissions by 390.5 tonnes compared to hot thermoplastic. The 40% reduction in programme duration further cut congestion-related emissions, creating an increased beneficial environmental outcome.

Cost efficiency improvements were equally impressive. We reduced traffic management costs by £231,000 (based on £3,000 per shift) by requiring 77 fewer shifts, representing a 40% reduction in traffic management requirements. These savings demonstrate how innovative approaches can deliver both financial and operational benefits.

The safety transformation stands as the project’s greatest achievement. Fatal road traffic incidents decreased by 38.4% when comparing the 2020-2024 period to 2014-2018. Enhanced wet night visibility for drivers, combined with the elimination of burn risks for workers, created safer conditions for everyone involved with the motorway.

Public recognition validated these improvements. The M40 achieved a 79% public satisfaction rating and was named the UK’s Best Motorway in 2022, 2024, and 2025, demonstrating that technical excellence translates directly into user experience.

“QMS’s innovative approach, underpinned by data intelligence, sustainability, and operational excellence, consistently exceeded our expectations. Their use of advanced cold-applied systems, coupled with proactive risk and environmental management, delivered measurable improvements in safety, efficiency, and carbon performance. The results achieved on the M40 reflect QMS’s professionalism, technical expertise, and commitment to continuous improvement.”
Anthony Cooper, General Manager, Egis M40

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