VentureForth
Engineer
I've mentioned many times in the past that Amtrak could benefit by better commercializing their stations. Ticket revenue ain't gonna cut it.
This report from Japan demonstrates how one struggling rural train company boosted ticket revenue, but more importantly, merchandising.
I have always felt that, especially off the NEC, our stations - even well patronized, staffed, busy stations - are nothing more than a roof overhead to wait for the often late ride out of town.
It would be neat to see an entrepreneur come in and set up a newsstand with local merchandise, snacks, Coke products (ok, that's personal), etc.
I just see so much missed opportunity.
Note: I don't see a cutsie fad going over that well in Savannah, but why not a Punxsutawney Phil gift shop in Punxsutawney?
This report from Japan demonstrates how one struggling rural train company boosted ticket revenue, but more importantly, merchandising.
I have always felt that, especially off the NEC, our stations - even well patronized, staffed, busy stations - are nothing more than a roof overhead to wait for the often late ride out of town.
It would be neat to see an entrepreneur come in and set up a newsstand with local merchandise, snacks, Coke products (ok, that's personal), etc.
I just see so much missed opportunity.
Note: I don't see a cutsie fad going over that well in Savannah, but why not a Punxsutawney Phil gift shop in Punxsutawney?
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