Kiosken

Kiosken is the definite form of the noun kiosk in Norwegian and Danish, used to refer to a small, usually freestanding retail booth or stand. In everyday use, kiosken denotes either the physical structure or the small shop that sells newspapers, magazines, confectionery, snacks, hot drinks, and other everyday items. Kiosken are commonly found along streets, near railway and bus stations, in markets, or at tourist sites. Some kiosken offer information services, maps, tickets, or other limited services, functioning as small information or service points. The term is applied to both traditional enclosed stalls and more modern portable or modular structures.

The word kiosk itself traces to Turkish köşk, meaning a pavilion, and entered several European languages in the 18th and 19th centuries. In Scandinavian languages the form has acquired the definite article, yielding kiosken. Historically, kiosker emerged with urban modernization in the 19th century and were widely used for quick purchases. In many cities, kiosken operate under licenses and location rules and, in some cases, are integrated with public transit hubs to serve travelers. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, digital and vending kiosks have broadened the concept, including self-service machines and information kiosks that do not primarily sell goods. See also: kiosk, newsstand.