Scotrail has issued an appeal for businesses to open up new shops and cafes at its train stations.
The rail operator has identified more than 20 that offer available retail space, including spots at Fort William and Aviemore.
The organisation yesterday appealed for local and national firms to step forward and “improve the range and quality of facilities” on offer by opening up outlets selling food, coffee or providing “other services which would benefit the community”.
The space on offer includes vacant station buildings and existing shops and cafes, though there will also be the opportunity to create stand-alone kiosks where suitable.
Scotrail’s head of commercial development, Peter O’Connell, said he would welcome offers to open new trading spots at any of the nation’s stations.
He said: “We are pleased to announce new retail opportunities at stations across the country.
“While we’ve identified more than 20 locations, we’re keen to hear from businesses who have ideas for other stations on the network.
“Providing our customers with the best station facilities is an integral part of our plans.”
Earlier this year, local business Flahute Coffee opened at Markinch station in Fife.
The stall offers artisan coffee, Belgian hot chocolate, speciality teas and snacks to the 315,000 people who use the station every year.
The company’s Alan Wylie said: “Securing a pitch at Markinch station has been fantastic for us on a number of levels.”
