Eurostar to Invest in 50 New Trains to Enhance Tourist Experience

Eurostar announced on Thursday, May 16, its plan to introduce up to 50 new trains to its fleet by the early 2030s, aiming to significantly improve the travel experience for tourists across Europe.

The new trains will feature advanced energy-efficient systems and designs inspired by feedback from staff and passengers. These enhancements are set to offer tourists increased comfort, better accessibility, and a more sustainable travel option. Eurostar’s chief executive, Gwendoline Cazenave, emphasized the company's commitment to providing an exceptional experience for its customers.

Tourists traveling on the London routes will particularly benefit from these upgrades. In 2023, the London-Amsterdam route saw a 38% increase in passengers, while the London-Brussels and London-Paris routes experienced growth of 33% and 25%, respectively. These routes' popularity highlights Eurostar's growing appeal among tourists seeking convenient and comfortable travel options.

"There is huge demand for our services and we have big European ambitions," said Cazenave. "Investing in up to 50 new trains will provide more capacity and give customers something really special, offering a cutting-edge experience in terms of comfort, accessibility, and sustainability."

Eurostar’s decision to invest in these new trains comes alongside a report of strong financial performance, with annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation reaching €432 million (£363 million), an 8% increase from the previous year. The company's revenue hit €2 billion (£1.7 billion) for the first time, driven by the transport of 18.5 million passengers and successful refinancing of its existing debt.

"In our 30th birthday year, Eurostar has set out ambitious plans to carry 30 million passengers by 2030 and become the backbone of sustainable travel in Europe," added Cazenave. "Just seven months after the launch of the new Eurostar, we are well on our way, breaking records in 2023 in terms of passenger numbers and revenue."