#None #Plusgrade #Eurostar #Premium Upgrade

Plusgrade and Eurostar Partnership: Elevating Rail Travel Experience

On February 18, 2025, Plusgrade, a global leader in ancillary revenue solutions for the travel industry, announced an exciting collaboration with Eurostar, the high-speed train service connecting five countries in Europe. This partnership signifies a step forward as Plusgrade continues to expand its influence in the rail sector, aiming to provide proven solutions for generating additional revenues in various global travel markets.

Introduction of Premium Upgrade Options

As part of this collaboration, Plusgrade introduces the Premium Upgrade program that allows eligible Eurostar passengers to apply for an upgrade from their standard class to Eurostar Plus. This upgrade provides travelers with more spacious seating and access to enhanced amenities, thereby vastly improving their overall travel experience.

The partnership comes at a time when there’s an increasing demand for flexibility in travel, allowing passengers to enjoy a more personalized approach to their journey. Such enhancements aim to redefine what passengers expect from rail travel by integrating a more tailored and flexible option for seat upgrades, which is a refreshing approach in the industry.

Improving the Customer Journey

Passengers eligible for the Premium Upgrade will receive an invitation via email prior to their departure, which includes an offer to bid on an upgrade. This bidding process is available until 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure, ensuring that travelers have ample time to consider their options. Notifications regarding accepted bids will also be sent out at least 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient and user-friendly process.

Notably, this new approach not only enhances passenger comfort but also allows Eurostar to optimize the utilization of its premium seating capacity effectively. In addition, Eurostar Premier, a service offering elevated travel experiences, will be integrated into the offerings in 2025, promising additional features and luxurious services.

Commitments to Quality Service

Ken Harris, founder and CEO of Plusgrade, expressed pride in collaborating with Eurostar, a recognized leader in the rail sector. He stated, “This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to enhancing travelers' experiences while generating meaningful ancillary revenues for our partners. Together, we are providing opportunities for passengers to enjoy premium train travel and assisting Eurostar in optimizing its operations.”

François le Doze, Chief Commercial Officer at Eurostar, echoed this sentiment, elaborating that Eurostar strives to provide their customers with the best experiences possible. By partnering with Plusgrade, they’re able to deliver a more flexible and personalized upgrade experience for passengers, ensuring premium services are accessible at a price that is agreeable to the travelers.

Expanding Availability Across Europe

The Premium Upgrade program is currently available for eligible passengers traveling on Eurostar routes connecting key cities such as London, Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. By 2025, plans are underway to extend this program to additional cities within Eurostar’s ever-growing network of destinations.

For more information regarding the Premium Upgrade program, passengers can visit Eurostar's dedicated page illustrating how they can bid for upgrades, thus enhancing their rail travel experience.

About Plusgrade and Eurostar

Founded in 2009, Plusgrade has emerged as a key player in promoting ancillary revenue within the global travel industry, providing its innovative solutions to more than 250 companies across various sectors, including airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and now, railways. The company has generated substantial revenue opportunities while enhancing travel experiences for millions.

Eurostar, on the other hand, has set ambitious goals to carry 30 million passengers yearly by 2030, positioning itself as a vital component of sustainable travel across Europe. With a fleet of 51 trains, Eurostar operates the largest international high-speed network in Western Europe, covering 28 locations in Germany, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and the UK. In 2023, Eurostar transported 18.6 million passengers and achieved a remarkable revenue of €2 billion. As part of its growth strategy, Eurostar announced plans for the acquisition of up to 50 new trains in 2024.

In conclusion, the partnership between Plusgrade and Eurostar illustrates a robust commitment to enhancing the rail travel experience in Europe, proof that collaborative efforts can beneficially transform customer experiences in the travel sector.