17 October 2019
Eurostar reports on Q3 2019 performance
Eurostar, the high-speed passenger rail service linking the UK with mainland Europe, today reported continuing growth in passenger numbers in quarter 3 this year as well as its busiest ever August with over 1 million customers travelling at that time. Passenger volumes over the three months to 30 September 2019 were up by 4% year-on-year (2019: 3.1m 2018: 3.0m) and sales revenues grew by 3% to £254m (2018: £247m) over the same period.
These results were underpinned by a strong increase of 16% in quarter 3 sales revenues from customers from North America who were taking advantage of the high-speed rail connections between Europe’s iconic cities during the peak summer season.
At the end of the quarter, Eurostar launched a new advertising campaign across all markets focusing on the benefits of travelling with Eurostar and the concept that “You see more when you don’t fly.”
With the ease and comfort of high speed rail and the growing demand for sustainable modes of transport, the train is increasingly seen as a compelling alternative to the airlines.
25th anniversary of Eurostar services in November this year
On 14th November 2019, Eurostar will celebrate 25 years of service, during which time it has revolutionised cross-Channel travel. Since it began operating in 1994, the journey time from London to Paris has been slashed from 3 hours to 2 hours and 15 minutes and passenger numbers have grown from just under 3 million in the first full year of service to 11 million in 2018.
With a lead-in price from just £29 one way, no additional charges for luggage or seats and carbon emissions up to 90% less than equivalent flights, Eurostar represents a competitive and attractive choice for short haul European travel.
Mike, Cooper, Chief Executive, Eurostar, said: “We have seen positive momentum over the summer with strong growth in the number of North American passengers choosing to travel by high speed rail. With our twenty fifth anniversary later this year and the growing demand for sustainable travel we and our customers have an exciting time ahead.”
For more information visit www.eurostar.com
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Definitions:
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Sales revenue is the value of ticket bookings made during the period. This revenue is only recognised in the income statement at the date on which the passenger actually travels.
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Passenger volumes reflect the number of travellers carried by Eurostar in the period.