In a sign that the economy is recovering, two new retail businesses have opened at Hatfield station in Hertfordshire, which is managed by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), the operator of Great Northern and Thameslink.

A branch of Kerbside Coffee has been opened in a retail unit that had stood empty for over two years, and supermarket Budgens has opened in a unit that had been empty for several months.

Kerbside Coffee is an independent coffee shop with a passion for quality brews and community connection.

It aims to make the new store at Hatfield station more than just a place to buy coffee, but become an integral part of the local community by fostering relationships, supporting local initiatives, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The coffee shop will continue Kerbside Coffee’s commitment to sourcing its products ethically and locally whenever possible and ensuring that every cup of coffee reflects both quality and responsibility.

The new businesses are a reflection of an increase in new lettings across the Govia Thameslink Railway network, signalling a sign of strong recovery in local economies after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company has around 350 retail units on its network, with almost 60 tenancy agreements signed last year and another 60 in progress, many for units that have lain empty for two years or more.

David Gornal, GTR’s Commercial Director, said: “It’s heartening to see our stations’ retail businesses bouncing back after such a difficult period. With the recovery in passenger numbers, station retail units are again being seen as good opportunities for thriving trade.

“And of course, it’s great news for rail users. We can offer our customers better facilities and a better journey experience, and the station becomes a more valuable asset for the community it serves. Over the next few months, we’ll be announcing a great variety of high-quality retail openings at stations across the network.”

Jason Harris, founder of Kerbside Coffee, said: “We’re beyond excited to bring the Kerbside Coffee experience to Hatfield station. Our mission has always been to serve exceptional coffee, freshly baked goods and super tasty treats while creating a space where people can come together.

“We believe in the power of coffee to bring people together, and we’re committed to making a positive impact in Hatfield. Hatfield is a vibrant community, and we can’t wait to be a part of it – we want to be a place where locals and commuters alike feel a sense of belonging.”

Mary Lowe of the Hatfield Association of Rail Travellers said: “There was great unhappiness among rail users and local residents when the previous supermarket closed last year, leading to a public meeting with GTR attended by almost 60 people in November.

“We are very pleased that things moved on quickly following that meeting and that these two businesses have now opened. We are working with both to promote community involvement and are grateful to Jason for hosting a book-swap facility in the coffee shop.”