Gastronomy on Deutsche Bahn – a journey in the right direction?

Anyone who has often travelled long distances with Deutsche Bahn will have noticed that a lot has changed in the DB on-board bistro, especially recently. Where previously there was mainly currywurst and salami pizza, today the menu includes not only these classics but also a lot of vegetarian and vegan dishes, wraps, salads and the like. And for everyone currently travelling in 1st class, there is also a delicious piece of share chocolate, packed in 100% recyclable paper packaging, as a gift on top. But how did this change come about, how were these major changes possible and why do share and Deutsche Bahn fit together so well? We spoke to the head of product group management, Philip-Nicolas Schaaf.

The onboard bistro's offering has changed a lot recently. When and why was this process initiated?

The process started before Corona. We noticed that something had changed in demand. We are also looking at stationary gastronomy and seeing what is happening in smaller restaurants. Currently, many vegan restaurants are opening in big cities and are also continuing to exist - so demand seems to be high here. And the issue of sustainability - including in nutrition - is now a hot topic for everyone due to the climate crisis. That is why we introduced a vegan bowl with fermented cauliflower as a test, which far exceeded our sales expectations. For us, that was a sign that something was changing and that we naturally wanted to go along with this change.

How did this change come about, what exactly set the process in motion?

Clearly, above all, the demand of our customers and the Group’s overall sustainable strategy. But our suppliers also saw the potential in the topics of planted and organic and made the change possible. As an onboard bistro, we are the flagship of the catering industry on the train and make our sustainability tangible for customers; this is also where the credibility of our company is decided. This gave us good tailwind for the big changes.

What is the response to the new products?

We had a hard time estimating the demand and the possibilities of implementing this change in the system catering industry - but luckily we only got a few minor problems that we were able to iron out quickly. There are always people who complain, you just have to put up with that. But that was OK too. On the contrary: there was a lot of support for us. And sales beyond Veganuary have also shown that the change is working and the response is positive. Overall, we have gained more users and have been able to tap into new customer groups.

What are you personally most proud of, what is the biggest milestone?

We were particularly pleased about the introduction of the oat drink - we were even quicker than the other German-speaking railways. Of course, we are also pleased about the share chocolate with its paper packaging as a gift. share was able to produce the paper packaging, which is 100% recyclable - and that was important to us. We are also proud of the supplier development and our supplier portfolio, which has developed well.

How do you select suppliers or manufacturers? Which criteria are particularly important?

We pay particular attention to critical E numbers, i.e. additives, artificial flavors, etc. – our suppliers are not allowed to use these. Good products, yes, but please without chemicals. And at the same time, a long shelf life is important for us when catering on the go. We also pay attention to regional sourcing; our main producers are based in Germany wherever possible.

Why do you think share and DB go together so well, why did you choose our chocolate for your gift?

Once again, the issue of credibility and uncompromisingness came into play, and share was convincing. Share has already shown commitment with mineral water - with the development of a new reusable bottle specifically for the requirements of the railway. The same was true again with the development of the paper packaging for the chocolate that we wanted. Share goes the extra mile and we are a good fit here.

Have you personally tasted and selected the chocolate? What do you particularly like?

I do try it, but I keep my opinion to myself so as not to influence anyone else in the team. It's the tasting that counts, the mix of different tastes from very different, independent people. But the chocolate could really delight everyone collectively.

What is the travelers’ feedback on the cooperation and the shared chocolate?

It was very, very well received. Subjectively, we saw a lot of posts about it online from the guests. We also received a lot of positive feedback about the paper packaging, and there was a lot going on here about the topic of favorite guest on Instagram & Co.

And finally, perhaps a little sneak peek: What else can Deutsche Bahn customers look forward to in the near future?

In autumn and winter we will introduce other great producers and suppliers. The real highlight: it will stay as it is! We will continue with our new standard of 50% vegetarian, focusing on sustainability and great cooperation.