Last year, Eurostar saw record traveler numbers and record revenues from ticket sales. Passenger numbers broke the 9 million barrier for the first time with 9.1 million travelers carried – an increase of 10.3% on the previous year. The launch of Eurostar services on High Speed 1 boosted the number of travelers keen to experience 186 mph train services and the stunningly restored St Pancras International station. Ticket sales also reached a record level of £664 million, rising 10.9% from 2007. As the one year anniversary of the opening of High Speed 1 approaches it is clear the transformation of the service has been a resounding success on many levels.

The launch of services from St Pancras International on High Speed 1 marks a new era for international train travel. Journeys are faster, greener and more comfortable, and the station has become a London landmark – a place for people to visit even if they don’t have a train to catch. Europe’s first destination station boasts a world-class brasserie, boutique arcade and fine-dining experiences. And to add a little sparkle to your day you can visit Europe’s longest champagne bar, which overlooks the hustle and bustle of the platforms. The jewel in Eurostar’s crown is the original Barlow Shed, which was once the largest enclosed space in the world. Eurostar is the only train to glide under this magnificent structure and into the heart of the station, allowing its travelers to rediscover the true art of travel.

 

The business travel market continues to perform strongly with corporate travelers switching to highspeed rail for short-haul travel between London and the Continent, reducing their carbon footprint and maximising productivity by taking advantage of Eurostar’s 10-minute check-in times and the unique work friendly environment of Eurostar’s Business Premier class with its dedicated wi-fi enabled lounges and onboard cars. Leisure travelers are also taking the opportunity to upgrade from the economy Standard class to Eurostar’s premium service for leisure travellers, Leisure Select, where travelers relax and enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal and refreshments served at their seat in reserved, spacious and comfortable accommodations.

 

Independent research has shown that a Eurostar journey between and Paris / Brussels generates one tenth of the carbon dioxide produced by an equivalent flight. And with the launch of the Tread Lightly campaign in April 2007, Eurostar has become greener than ever. Under this initiative Eurostar has committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 25% per passenger journey by 2012, and set out an in-depth Ten point plan for reducing environmental impact of the company. What’s more all Eurostar journeys have been carbon neutral at no extra cost to travellers, resulting in greener travel between the UK and the Continent.