Deurne Station: A Model for Dutch Travel Hubs

Deurne Station in the Netherlands has been repeatedly recognized for its exceptional passenger experience, earning the title of best station in Brabant for the third time in 2025. This success is attributed to a collaborative effort between Daily Deurne, a station restaurant, and the Stationspark Cooperative, who have transformed the station into a welcoming and community-focused space.

From Sterile Space to ‘Huiskamer’ (Living Room)

Just over a decade ago, Deurne Station was a stark and uninviting environment, featuring only plastic benches and a ticket window. The transformation began in 2015 when entrepreneur Henk Schroijen opened Daily Deurne, aiming to create a “huiskamer” – a living room – for travelers and local residents alike. This approach has proven successful, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere that goes beyond the typical functionality of a train station.

Passenger Experience Prioritized

Research conducted by Ipsos I&O on behalf of ProRail and the NS (Dutch Railways) highlights the importance of time spent at the station in shaping the overall travel experience. Schroijen and Daily Deurne have directly addressed this by offering a space where passengers can relax, dine, and connect. “It is nice that our work is appreciated by travelers, as reflected in the figures,” Schroijen stated. [Source: DMG Deurne]

Daily Deurne provides amenities such as free Wi-Fi and restroom facilities, ensuring passenger comfort, even during service disruptions. The restaurant itself is more than just a food and beverage outlet; it functions as a welcoming waiting area where people are not obligated to create a purchase to enjoy the space.

Fairtrade and Sustainability

Daily Deurne distinguishes itself as the first and only train station in the Netherlands with a Fairtrade certification, a title recently extended for another three years through 2027. [Source: DMG Deurne] This commitment is demonstrated through the offering of Fairtrade coffee, tea, chocolate, ice cream, and bananas. The initiative is supported by Platform Global Goals Deurne and the Kernteam Fairtrade.

Community Engagement and Green Initiatives

Beyond the station building, the Stationspark Cooperative has implemented several initiatives to enhance the surrounding area. These include a mural featuring prominent figures from Deurne, a water fountain, an electric bicycle pump, and chess/checkers tables. A panel displaying lyrics from Ernst Jansz’s song “Tijd Genoeg” and a relocated sculpture by Joep Coppens further contribute to the area’s cultural appeal.

A community garden has likewise been established, providing both green space and opportunities for individuals facing employment barriers. “This makes the neighborhood more gorgeous and social,” explained Michel Lintermans of the Stationspark Cooperative. Future plans include planting additional trees and shrubs to further enhance the green environment.

Looking Ahead

The success of Deurne Station demonstrates the potential for transforming transportation hubs into vibrant community spaces. By prioritizing passenger experience, sustainability, and local engagement, Deurne has set a new standard for train stations in the Netherlands, and beyond.