Network Rail has appointed a new commercial director to focus on boosting retail revenue at its stations around the UK.
Jonathan Crick, who will have overall responsibility for retail when he joins in January, will be in charge of oversees advertising, car parks and other commercial contracts at Network Rail’s 17 managed stations, including King’s Cross, Liverpool Lime Street and Waterloo.
During the last three years, Network Rail has generated more than £390 million of revenue from retail activity. The total revenue forecast for all property activities over a five-year period ending March 2014, including business estate and developments, is £1.3 billion.
Network Rail’s director of property David Biggs said: “Britain relies on rail, and commercial revenue is a vital funding stream for Network Rail. We are at a crucial phase in delivering our vision for retail, as we work to create ever better environments for passengers and shoppers, transforming stations into destinations in their own right.
“Jonathan’s extensive commercial experience across the travel sector will be a major asset to our team, helping us to achieve our commercial goals and deliver even greater value for the British people.”
Joining from BAA, Mr Crick currently holds the post of commercial director at Stansted Airport, responsible for retail, property and aviation.
Mr Crick said: “Hundreds of millions of passengers pass through Network Rail’s managed stations every year. That represents a massive opportunity for retail businesses and the challenge is to create inspiring environments that can capture the imagination of the public, make them want to spend more time there, thus enabling businesses to thrive.”
