In numbers:

850 million

the number of people who visit Network Rail’s stations every year

155

different brands currently partnering with the British rail operator

32%

Network Rail’s retail sales increase since 2010

£192.5m

spent by passengers at Network Rail stations between April and June 2017

100%

of the profits are reinvested into the railways

84%

of passengers were “very satisfied” or “fairly satisfied” with Network Rail’s stations

92,000sq ft

of retail space at London Bridge, the most profitable station

 In News

Network Rail has agreed to sell a chunk of its commercial estate portfolio in a £1.4bn deal to help fund the UK railway upgrade plan. The operator launched the sale of its commercial estate portfolio, which comprises approximately 7,500 properties, in November last year. The sale includes 5,200 of the total properties and converted railway arches.


Source: Railway Technology

Chinese ecommerce giant JD launched a virtual shopping service at nine train stations in the Greater Jakarta region. Passengers can choose products through a banner that resembles the appearance of a supermarket at the train station, scan a QR code and their items will be sent to their home. JD said it chose train stations for the project as more and more people are using this mode of transport.


Source: Tech in Asia

Small businesses based in railway arches generate over £725m in revenue every year, new research has shown.

The study by the New Economics Foundation found that an average company in an arch contributes about £160,000 to the UK’s economic output every year, with vehicle sales businesses thought to generate about £200m a year alone.


Source: Railway Technology

Eurostar has unveiled a new cocktail bar on the upstairs floor of its existing London Lounge at St Pancras International. The new facility features spirits from the train’s key destinations and the menu includes cocktails created by the London Cocktail Club and a winter G&T menu.


Source: Business Traveller