05.12.18
ScotRail announces new train station retail opportunities
ScotRail has announced a range of new retail opportunities at train stations across the country as it looks improve the quality of facilities at stations.
Over 20 stations, including Aviemore and Bathgate, are being made available for new ventures – from coffee and outlets to other services provided at the station.
ScotRail says it is investing in station improvements across the country, with stations at Aberdeen, Glasgow Queen Street, Inverness, and Motherwell under substantial development, and therefore offering more significant retail opportunities.
The train operator has appealed for local and national traders to get involved, with the spaces available including vacant station buildings, existing retail opportunities, and stand-alone kiosks in stations.
The head of commercial development at ScotRail, Peter O’Connell, commented: “We’re pleased to announce new retail opportunities at stations across the country.
“While we’ve identified over 20 locations, we’re keen to hear from businesses who have ideas for other stations on the network.”
He added: “Providing our customers with the best station facilities is an integral part of our plans to build the best railway Scotland has ever had.”
ScotRail was in the news last month as the Scottish Government prepared to vote on the future of ScotRail’s train services amidst calls from Labour to renationalise the franchise.
The TOC introduced a new fleet of revamped HSTs between Aberdeen and Edinburgh in October.
Earlier this year, local business Flahute Coffee opened at Markinch station offering artisan coffee, luxury Belgian hot chocolate, speciality teas and nutritious snacks to around 315,000 people.
Flahute Coffee managing partner Alan Wylie said: “As well as providing a regular income which has allowed the business to both establish itself and grow, we are also feeding into the local community and providing a valuable service to the commuters and locals.
“Locating at the station is the best business decision we have made.”
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