Elmer van Buuren, the co-founder and managing director of
European Sleeper, brings over 15 years of seasoned expertise
to the travel and railway sectors, dedicating a decade to
operations and project management. He started his career in
the travel industry before moving to the rail sector working in
consultancy.
For two decades, Elmer harbored the ambition to helm his
own railway company, a dream he saw as increasingly viable
with the resurgence of interest in sleeper trains. Motivated
by this opportunity, he, alongside his co-founder, embarked
on a practical learning journey.
They quickly realized that, despite a regulatory framework,
securing success was far from guaranteed. Elmer is a staunch
advocate for a shift towards a new economic model that
prioritizes purpose over growth, viewing it as, essential, for
addressing global challenges such as climate change and
inequality.
“Running more night trains across Europe is a dream that we
bring to life with and for our community. That is why we are
not an average company, but a social cooperative. It means
that everyone can join European Sleeper.”
“Our members can contribute ideas to our business
operations and share the profits we distribute. This ethos of
inclusion and care extends to our members and passengers
and to every individual working at European Sleeper.”
“We are committed to ensuring the well-being of our entire
community.”