New Facilities for Sanitation in 14 Major Train Stations
SNCB aims to make the passage of its customers through train stations enjoyable and consistently invests in this area. To materialize this vision, the concept of 2theloo has been chosen to operate the sanitary facilities for the next 8 years minimum, following a European tender.
Sanitary facilities rank in the TOP 3 of passengers' primary expectations. Crucial in heavily frequented stations, they must meet quality requirements such as availability, cleanliness, and safety.
The operation of the sanitary facilities in the train stations of Antwerp-Central, Bruges, Brussels-Central, Brussels-North, Brussels-Midi, Charleroi-Central, Kortrijk, Gent-Sint-Pieters, Leuven, Liège-Guillemins, Mechelen, Mons, Namur, and Ottignies will now be entrusted to 2theloo, which has the experience and expertise in this field.
In the coming months, the sanitary facilities will be gradually converted, with partial or complete renovations. Night toilets will also be installed. All facilities will be accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Patrice Couchard, Director of Stations at SNCB: 'This new contract allows SNCB to offer its passengers a quality service and ensure hygienic and modern sanitary facilities.' Chris Meijers, CEO of 2theloo: 'This partnership is an excellent opportunity to strengthen our presence in Belgium and continue our mission to provide clean, modern, and pleasant toilets in busy locations such as train stations and lively city areas. We look forward to the start of this new collaboration with the Belgian railways.'
Practical and professional service for passengers
The new restroom concept includes extended opening hours, a 24/7 available intercom, staff flexibility during peak periods in stations and events, as well as thorough cleaning and numerous amenities for a convenient and comfortable service.
Access will be free for children under 1.20m and will cost €1 for other travelers, who will receive a discount voucher for use in various shops present at the station.
A 100% CO2 neutral service
The concept foresees up to 50% less energy and water consumption, 35% less paper, and 60% less soap compared to the current situation. Measures to offset CO2 emissions are also planned by the service provider, ensuring a carbon-neutral operation of public sanitation facilities in these 14 stations.
For example, there will be water dosing and recycling systems. Rainwater will be used if available. Distribution systems limiting consumption, as well as ecological soap and cleaning products, will also be present. The planned layout is designed to be easy to maintain.
Special attention for families and people with reduced mobility
Individuals with disabilities and families will receive extra service and attention.
Various restrooms will have a separate nursery space equipped with a child-friendly toilet, a microwave, an ergonomic chair for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, and a changing table for babies.
The locations will also be adapted for people with reduced mobility with suitable toilets, more space, a sliding door, sinks at the right height, and an alert button for assistance. The interior layout of the sanitary facilities will include guiding lines and contrasting colors for blind and visually impaired individuals.
About 2theloo
2theloo is an international company specializing in operating toilets in highly frequented locations such as train stations, highways, and city centers. The company is known for its clean, modern, and fun toilets. Founded in 2011 and present in more than 9 countries today, 2theloo manages approximately 200 sites in Europe and serves more than 45 million toilet users annually through its advanced toilet concept.
