NS has a socioeconomic impact on society through its own expenditure such as procurement, investments and salaries. This means for instance that NS contributes to the added value and employment opportunities at its suppliers. The economic benefits were €1,383 million of added value at suppliers (€1,278 million in 2015), or approximately 22,500 jobs. NS is able to extend its positive social impact yet further through sustainable procurement, e.g. for major categories of purchases such as trains (and their components), buildings and infrastructure, IT and energy. NS undertook a number of sustainable procurement activities in 2016, including participating in Railsponsible, a European sector initiative for improving sustainability.

Expenditure - indirect added value

Expenditure - indirect employment

In addition, NS has an impact on the areas surrounding its stations. This consists primarily of enhancing accessibility for local residents (seen in journey times and mobility) and the contribution to improving the living environment, for example through commercial activity around stations.