After a successful pilot project last year, Belgian rail operator SNCB hopes to expand its network of fresh food product collection points to around 50 train stations across Belgium, the company announced on 6 September. The company is now actively looking for suppliers.
SNCB wants to offer passengers the opportunity to purchase top-quality, local fresh food products, mostly fruit and vegetables, which can be picked up from a designated spot within train stations. “Local residents and travellers will be able to pick up their order after work,” SNCB notes.
Customers will be able to make a weekly pick up of goods either from a specialist stand, using a locker system, or possibly vending machines allowing for direct sales. The exact pick-up arrangements will depend on the particularities of each station.
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For the 50 stations included in the first stage of the project, SNCB has opened the tender for applications from local producers. In Brussels, the trial will begin in Schaerbeek and Jette stations.
It is hoped that the project will begin during the autumn months and will be fully completed by spring next year.
